In Reply to: difficulties in attitudes toward "THE FAMILY".. posted by ray on September 07, 2003 at 19:34:12:
This is a powerful plea for compassion for individuals caught in a destructive system of relationships and beliefs. A very long time ago I recognized that there is a thin and often blurry line that separates victim from victimizer.
It takes courage to acknowledge the existence of evil and stand still within yourself. It has been said that "Courage is fear that has said its prayers."
I am generally fearful of zealots, but over time I have learned to trust the process of life. Even when extremists appear to prevail and cause horrendous suffering, there is a place where ultimately all is well. Finding that place of perfect peace is not always easy, but it helps if you keep an open space in your head and heart for lovingkindness.