March 2019 Around The World Today Series 2 Episode 5 By Terry D
In Series 2, Episode 5 of Around the World Today, titled We Stand with New Zealand, Terry Davies reflects on the tragic events of March 15, 2019, when the world was shaken by the terrorist attack on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand. In this heartfelt episode, Terry addresses the global shock and grief that followed the massacre, where 51 people were killed and many more were injured during Friday prayers.
Ways To Listen
Terry opens the episode by recounting the horror and disbelief that swept across the world as news of the attack spread. He expresses deep sympathy for the victims and their families and commends the strength of the New Zealand community in the face of such unimaginable tragedy. He highlights the response of New Zealand's Prime Minister, Jacinda Ardern, whose compassionate leadership in the aftermath of the attack was widely praised for its empathy and swift action to tighten gun laws.
The central theme of the episode revolves around the destructive power of hate and the healing power of love. Terry emphasizes how the Christchurch attack was driven by hatred, specifically Islamophobia and racism, and how such ideologies continue to fuel violence and division in the world. He reflects on how hate, whether born of ignorance, fear, or manipulation, often leads to tragic consequences, tearing communities and societies apart.
Terry contrasts this with the outpouring of love and solidarity that followed the attack, both in New Zealand and globally. He shares stories of how people from different backgrounds and faiths came together to support the Muslim community in Christchurch, demonstrating that love and unity can overcome hate. Terry believes that while hate creates problems, it is love that ultimately heals and rebuilds, as seen in the resilience of the survivors and the widespread support they received.
The episode serves as a call to action for listeners to reject hate in all its forms and embrace love, empathy, and understanding as the foundation for a better world. Terry concludes with a powerful message: while we cannot erase the past, we can honor the victims of such senseless violence by striving to build a future where love prevails over hate.
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