It is a beautiful night. I watched the sun set over the Golden Gate from a park bench, while eating a gyro. The sky was perfectly clear, just like my head has been. I still know what is important, and everything is as it should be.
Well. Almost.
I've been hearing a lot about violent attacks on synagogues and the recent murders of Israelis who live abroad, and we're talking more than just the usual hate crimes by some European skinheads and other white supremacy groups. These are acts of murder and hatred against Jews just for being Jewish, whether they are pro Israel or not, and Muslims have surpassed neo nazis as the primary attackers. Not to detract from the Lebanese of course, because I know what you're thinking. You're right, I am concerned about Israel's welfare, as well as for the safety of my family and friends here and abroad. How could I not be? But put aside your anger for a moment because I'm liberal just like you, I don't have fangs, and I'm not a bloodthirsty killer. I've had a lot of mixed feelings about all of this. Who hasn't? It's just that I feared this backlash, and voila, here it is. As if there wasn't enough suffering. Just as Muslims experienced a backlash after 9/11, the new target is the oldest target of all, and now some democrats are even defending the terrorists, which is...well it's a bit much. Such is life.
I couldn't help but reflect on this while I sat hedonistically enjoying the unusually tranquil air, watching the soothing waves left by a cargo ship pushing slowly toward the orange horizon. The only thing I have to worry about here is whether a minor earthquake will add another hairline crack to these sturdy old walls. Not that I should punish myself for being alive and well. I just wish the whole world could sit beside me on that park bench and share that solace. Just one peaceful sunset, far away from the world's troubles.
I hope everyone is safe tonight.
And by everyone, I mean everyone.
9:53 p.m. - 2006-08-05