For Whom the Bell Tolls?

Peace is as fragile as these bubbles blown from Antigua Guatemala.

I still recall the first time I read about World War II and the Holocaust and I could not believe how the world remained numb and motionless while millions were being massacred. I could not believe the lack of empathy towards other human beings being systematically annihilated by others with a macabre political and inhumane agenda. Ever since, I have watch dozen films about this shameful period in recent history. Wrongfully I thought we had matured and learned from these disgraceful lessons, but then the list of despicable acts of genocide continue to grow. Guatemala is still scarred and suffering from its own atrocious and abominable acts of genocide and justice seems so far away.

Before, the world claimed unawareness. For today’s acts of genocide, however, we can not claim ignorance or lack of information. The images that come from Gaza are all over the social media streams and mass media news channels. What’s my excuse for my empathy, apathy and numbness this time?

No man is an island, entire of itself… any man’s death diminishes me, because I am involved in mankind, and therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee. John Donne (1572-1631)

© 2014 – 2020, Rudy Giron. All rights reserved.