Well IMD I guess religion is the bane of society then and without it millions - hundreds of millions will be (no pun intended) saved! If there were a God would he/she/it tolerate such genocide in His/Her/Its name?

The Internet is a terrible medium to conduct a nuanced conversation.

But it is the best you and I and others here have at this time.

One thing I did learn is how traumatic effects travel through generations, and that in itself should give us food for thought regarding the levels of violence, state sponsored or otherwise we deplore, but accept nevertheless.

I find it interesting too, that even those who profess not to believe in God, yet ascribe a personality to Him/Her. "The soul you have placed in me is pure", we say in the jewish morning prayer, and I believe that's a fundamental starting point for our dealings with anyone. We can't stop violence, but we can deal justly and compassionately with everyone and anyone we encounter.

but we can deal justly and compassionately with everyone and anyone we encounter.>

If only all religious folk had the same compassion the world would be a much more kumbala place.

I consider that the special legacy of my maternal grandparents.

thanking everyone for this beautiful exchange, and apologizing for hijacking it somewhat. I do feel Ed van der Elsken has been underestimated as a photographer. He was a wonderful force in post war photography in the Netherlands, and internationally too, but only among the well - informed.

Ed's farewell:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v0cgDKmVvow