I just have to say...in this time of change and theories, catharsis and even sadness...I am bothered by the oversimplification and all the assumptive, presumptuous, and overly idealistic attitudes some people are expressing. I do not agree that we should party over the killing of anyone, or that that death is the answer to the problems we face...(they would have much rather brought Osama in alive, yet that was not what he was going to allow...I am sure) but anyone with any intelligence knows that the catharsis and reaction many people are having is about so much more than that.
Those of us who have not lost someone or many people in this last ten years to terrorism and war, or have not lived under that kind of oppression can have our ideas and feelings about this, but we know far too little about this...both politically and personally to be telling other people how they should feel. There are many sides to this story. Let us not forget what this man's life was dedicated to. That he essentially chose how he would die being dedicated as he was to his own beliefs. That any human life not in line with his system of belief was worthless. He actively participated in the destruction of that life and perpetuated that belief system. We should be working toward peace always...however, though I am not throwing a party or lighting off fire works and popping champagne... I will not be sad that this man is gone. I am glad for the relief of those who have suffered and that there will be less suffering hereafter on his account. Of course we must be aware that this is not over and of course the desire is for a peaceful world. Let us be careful though...not to martyr this man inadvertently in our idealistic quests for "peace". For that is what he wanted. To die a martyr. He lived by the gun and he died by the gun. That was his choosing.
As I was thinking about all of this last night...I could not help but think about World War II and Hitler. Would people be so cavalier as to tell those who survived the concentration camps and/or lost family or friends under Hitler not to rejoice in the death of that man? I cannot imagine the nerve that would take.
Everyone has a right to their own perceptions and in this country...to express those perceptions. Let us try to remember not to be divorced though... from the reality that often conflicts with our high ideals.
There are always those who get swept up in the mob but I think for the most part most people were relieved and glad to have that part of our consciousness behind us and that in some small way the symbol and face of incalculable pain is no more.
I do not believe (this is just my own perspective talking) that the reactions most people are having are about the killing as much as the fact that Osama no longer exists. I believe that had they brought him in alive there would have been as much celebrating. Would there be as much criticism of those who felt relief that this man was no longer in a place of power and could be released from our collective consciousness? That is something to think about. We should not rejoice in killing ever... however are we obligated to mourn the passing of every human life? I am pretty sure the answer is no. Even if you are a pacifist or desire peace... You do not have to deny the human reaction of relief or joy to the end of a period of devastation caused in large part by this man. Death is part of life...the life that Osama chose was all about death.
People are not perfect and no one has all the answers. Our human emotions and psyches are far more complex than simple sayings or idealistic beliefs can encompass...especially when grief and loss and persecution are at play.
We should also not loose sight of the fact that this mans death is not the end of the terror he bred. There are many who followed him and who stand now in his place. We need to deal with the reality of these problems as well as our ideals. I believe that that is possible. Just remember that compassion is complex and involves understanding people and emotions on a multi dimensional level. Judging people for their sincere emotions is not in line with peace either. We must remember that we all have our own multi layered filters that can feel right to us but that do not fit the reality of other peoples experiences. I think...true compassion and conflict resolution...absolutely stems from a real understanding and respect for that.
We need to look at everything as truthfully as possible and try to learn something from it. Even the things we can't bear to look at. For it is all part of life. Worldwide peace is a lovely ideal. It has never existed in our recorded history. It appears to go against our human nature. I do not know if I believe it is truly possible, however if it is to exist, everyone must keep open eyes and an open mind and a willingness to try to understand the suffering and reactions of others.
Angela Lamb 5/2/2011
