When we witness the indiscriminate killing of innocent individuals, it is always a tragedy - wherever in the world it happens. When it happens close to home, it manages to be yet more shocking.
Much has been written about the terror attacks on London in these last few days, and I certainly have nothing to add from a news perspective. What I do have to say is that, unless we are very careful, the attackers in this case may well succeed.
The reason I say this is that I fully take on board the idea that their intention is to stoke up racial hatred and division, particularly against Moslem people. Already a friend confided in me, whilst arriving from London at a French airport, on the morning of the attack:
“There were armed police everywhere, and they were pulling anyone out of the queue who was even slightly brown-skinned.”
That, to me, is the heart of it. Suspicion is raised against people who look “Moslem”, for want of a better word. In short, even in the so-called 'interests of security', racism is being practised.
I wonder what Mr. Average is telling his daughter and his son? Is he saying:
“Ignore what you hear in the playground at school, whilst the people who did these bombings may possibly have dark skin, most foreign people are as genuine and peace-loving as we are.”
Or is he saying:
“You want to watch out for those dark-skinned foreigners. Those kinds of people do bombings like this - don't trust them.”
I believe the best way to triumph over this awful happening is to continue to live in peace and harmony with those around us, showing respect for our differing cultures and ways of living. To allow even the tiniest shard of hate or resentment into our thoughts is to offer the victory to those who seek only to destroy and divide.
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