On My Mind

I’m saying that your assumption of misplaced compassion is erroneous.

So, Avi, let me see if I understand this correctly:

Are you saying that adults can induce in children feelings (whether of “normality” or “victimhood”) quite independently of the objective facts of the situation?

Stuart, it’s worth noting that the premise of your observation runs counter to the best interests of Sderot’s residents.

As one of the journalists who traveled to Sderot with Phil, I saw how hard the teachers and principals labor to prevent the students from viewing themselves as victims and survivors.

This statement came from an elementary school principal: “We tell the children that they are normal, they are no different from children anywhere else in the world, that they have done nothing wrong and deserve to be happy and safe.”

Being that none of the people we met refer to themselves as “victims” or “survivors,” it’s clear that while they do need everyone’s support and solidarity, they have no need for anyone’s pity.

Surely it is worth noting that in none of his reports from the war zone of Sderot did Mr. Jacobs use the words “victim” and “survivor.”

These words, and Jacobs’s true passion, are obviously reserved for another topic - which he returns to today.

Welcome back, Phil !

Please don’t continue to try to walk and chew gum at the same time.

The results are embarrassing.