When I was growing up, Belfast was often in the news. The story of Northern Ireland’s ‘troubles’ is one that played out so many important human themes, and it has engaged me for a lifetime. Good versus evil. The role of religion for good and bad. Nationalism. And the questions about when is something “terrorism” versus a “fight for freedom”. It is also about the issue of control, and destiny.
I have been lucky enough to have been to Belfast and know a number of Irish. And it has always given me great hope that some of humanity’s most intractable problems just might be solvable. The openness and honesty of the Irish I have met, when discussing this topic, have further brought me hope.
This week Martin McGuinness’ funeral has once again reminded me of Northern Ireland, and the hope it brings me. The world badly needs this hope right now. Seeing former rivals carrying his coffin seems too good an opportunity to pass up. (And yes, I understand he never apologized and that many have never forgiven him.) Perhaps this is an opportunity to build a legacy for McGuinness while creating something good for the world.
So I ask readers of this blog, most especially those that are Irish, please explain how the legacy of the troubles reflects on the pressing issues of today; those with similar threads to what you dealt with:
Nationalism (including Brexit and Scotland, among others)
Populism
Terrorism
Palestine/Isreal
Please let’s keep this about optimism. And please keep in mind that what I am calling McGuinness’ ‘legacy’ is actually the story of the amazing Irish spirit that got beyond the troubles. A universal story of healing. Tell me, how did you do it?
With love and optimism, I ask you to teach the world.