Some Americans may grieve about the tortures of Abu Grahib. A number of Germans may remember the sins committed at Auschwitz. A few Catholics might regret becoming Altar Boys.
They believe the specific crimes against humanity as originating in a particular time and place. This is not true. Cruelty is a universal affliction.
In Israel we see cruelty on a massive scale every day. It may have started out as a noble Zionist endeavor. At first there was the fear the Arabs would eventually outnumber us.
As we suppressed them, the cruelty spread nationwide to include Jewish inhumanity to Jews.
It has become a national characteristic a blot on the Jewish tradition. Many people are abusive within the family and without.
Perhaps half the population has been abused verbally, physically or sexually.
The ones who don't participate are the heroes, deviants and whistle blowers. Lord knows we save our worst punishments for them.
Although I come from a very different culture, I know the trials and tribulations of native Americans, of Naomi Wolf and of Sibel Edmonds to name but a few.
Fascists begin life watching dad beat up mom. It goes downhill from there.

Comments:

Excellent post. Even the animals need a nurturing environment or they grow up skewed.

comment by elderjane on Mar 16, 2008 6:01 AM ()

We maintain a modest shelter for homeless animals and people. Virtually all our guests evidence terrible abuse. They are the walking wounded.
Abuse and torture waste lives.
John McCain should visit our shelter to learn about the damage he and people like him are doing.

reply by bumpedoff on Mar 16, 2008 9:52 AM ()

Sadly! This is true!

comment by redimpala on Mar 15, 2008 8:26 PM ()

When a terrible event appears on TV, we all ask what our country is coming to. We don't understand this tragedy is just the tip of the iceberg.

reply by bumpedoff on Mar 16, 2008 2:09 AM ()

Sad and depressing. I was blessed to have a great family and my own now is also great. You learn to count each blessing in this trying time.

comment by teacherwoman on Mar 15, 2008 1:51 PM ()

A good family makes for a fine life. A family member can weather any storm, because he has the basis of love.

reply by bumpedoff on Mar 16, 2008 2:24 AM ()

comment by mmmhollywould on Mar 15, 2008 1:15 PM ()

Here's to less cruelty everywhere.

reply by bumpedoff on Mar 16, 2008 2:30 AM ()

Your very right about this.I know this for a fact.

comment by fredo on Mar 15, 2008 10:47 AM ()

This kind of knowledge often comes with a big price.

reply by bumpedoff on Mar 16, 2008 2:34 AM ()