Letters to the editor
Readers respond
The next generation of terrorists has already been born
Children learn their beliefs and behaviors from the parents they love, teachers, clergy and others they respect. What is learned when young is likely to become the default behaviors and beliefs that will persist throughout their lives.
Jewish children are taught to love Judaism, its practices, rituals and beliefs — beliefs which promote a quality of life that is associated with kindness, caring and helping those in need. There are other children being taught to hate the Jewish religion, those who are Jewish and Israel. For many of these children, these will be their default behaviors and beliefs.
As children age, default beliefs will be supported by their communities and social relations. Depending on the community, for many this may promote kindness, but for others, it may promote antisemitism. Those children who are learning their default behaviors from those who are terrorists, are likely to become the next generation of terrorists (“‘Crisis fatigue’ and fear grip Jewish community after Washington attack,” May 30).
It is essential to reverse these patterns. It will take time and reaching out with kindness and patience to those we may currently not wish to interact with. Not easy, but we must change the default behaviors that have been implanted in so many.
Unfortunately, too much of the news today characterizes Jews and Judaism in a negative light — as cruel and even violent. We need to make people aware of the positive aspects of Judaism, including the friendship, kindness, support of others, positive thinking and caring relationships. That message will hopefully bring people together as a unified community, a community where people support each other, regardless of religion, social status, or education,
If the Jewish community doesn’t take steps to promote a positive message about Jews and Judaism, I worry about the environment my grandchildren will be living in.
Bruce S. Rabin, MD, PhD
Pittsburgh
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