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In reply to the discussion: Tom Teves: “The Senator (McCain) OWES my Wife An APOLOGY - He Is Lucky I Wasn’t There,” [View all]Wait Wut
(8,492 posts)This is what we need to see and hear. The parents, wives, children, friends need to be heard from more often. I've noticed that it is becoming more common, and it's been heartbreaking.
We've become jaded. Even here where compassion and activism runs high, we really aren't paying much attention to the victims friends and family. Despite our best intentions, we still see people as statistics. Yes, those statistics serve our arguments well, but how much more passionately do we fight when we see the face of a crying father, an angry mother or a near catatonic wife? Humanity is still beautiful, even with the tragedies it inflicts upon itself. By exposing ourselves to the raw anguish of these people I believe it makes it more personal to each of us. This man lost a son. A real person. Not just a kid in a theater, not just a number or even just a name. A laughing, loving, probably occasionally trouble-making son (hey, I have a son...I know).
I try to recognize each face of a tragedy. It's not easy. But, seeing the anger and disgust on this man's face burns his loss into my mind and heart. I don't want to use them. But, if they want to be heard, we need to make sure the whole damned world is listening and we need to be there when they break. With all of this man's furor, there is still a father with a broken heart. The anger will subside, the pain never will.
*I know someone will question (attack?) my use of the word 'we'. If you don't think it pertains to you, then I humbly excuse you from inclusion. Now, I'm offta see if I can email Mr. Teves to offer my support and condolences.
Edit: to fix a typo and to say that I suck at trying to find people. If anyone knows a trick to finding someone (he doesn't seem to be on FB) please let me know.