A Good Friday reflection

As Christians and Jews around the world continue to commemorate Holy Week and Passover, the events of the last few months certainly provide a lot of opportunity for reflection. The Italian earthquake, the string of mass murders across the United States, the ongoing global economic crisis and the Israeli offensive against Hamas in Gaza in January are among the innumerable things that have shaped our world since the new year.

This time of year symbolizes rebirth and renewal. The winter-weary have (hopefully) begun to pack their jackets and scarves away. Daffodils and tulips have begun to bloom. And images of packed beaches and pools are only a few weeks away... yes spring and especially the next couple of weeks represent an annual renaissance, but let's remember the last few months have proven more than ever that everyone has a responsibility to show compassion and love towards their fellow man or woman. This value is not a Christian or Jewish value, but rather a human value that remains woefully lacking in the world in which we all live.