Sad Reminders from the Boston Bombing

While our hearts go out to those who suffered in yesterday’s bombings in Boston and the desire for justice and answers is strong, think too of those who placed the bombs. I am not talking of forgiveness, for that would be too much for many people, but of understanding them, wondering how they felt as they set about causing carnage at a crowded holiday event in a beautiful American city. Whether they were part of an established terrorist cell or a loner, they were, perhaps, angry, bitter, sad, isolated, misfits, or mentally ill to be brought to create such a tragedy, and when they are found, as they are likely to be, their lives will be even more separated from society until their death. It is no coincidence that yesterday was Patriots’ Day and that the marathon that was the centre of the explosions was commemorating the Sandy Hook Massacre: it may be the attack was planned to coincide with these markers and send a message of hate or defiance to the American public and the world. So many of the recent tragedies in the world associated with violence – apart from war – have been perpetrated by one misguided individual who has lost all sense of reason, perspective or compassion. In every case the community from which they came has a certain responsibility for not noticing or not caring about them, though of course the full responsibility for their actions lies with them. The devices used yesterday were crude and small and the amateurism of the plan indicates it was not a formal terrorist operation planned from some international hideaway, but home-grown. While a terrorist campaign on American land would bring other fears, it can be easier to blame outsiders than to discover, again, that it was one of their own who attacked his fellow citizens in a terrible way. We will know more soon, but meanwhile it is not a time to fear but a time to reflect and to feel, without hatred, for all those who suffer pain and grief today. It is a sad day in America, and we who watch hurt with you. Claire Montanaro is a spiritual teacher, channel and blogger with special interest in esoteric philosophy and the world in transition. Loves nature and wildlife. Author of “Spiritual Wisdom”.    ]]>