Whether you like it or not, most conversations in the past two weeks have centred on what is happening in Gaza and Israel.
Thousands of innocent people, including children and babies, have died in the past two weeks – with both sides spinning their narratives, and claiming to be “more righteous” than the other.
Most sickening, some rejoiced in the deaths, as evident from several videos and news reports.
I do not confess to being an expert, and the only solution I can think of is for both sides to sit down and discuss things rationally (which will not happen any time soon). I can only hope and pray that more people will speak up for what’s right.
One such person was Liverpool and Egyptian footballer Mohamed Salah, who called for the “immediate” delivery of humanitarian supplies to Gaza in a stirring and impactful social media post on Thursday.
Coincidence or not, not long after Salah’s post – viewed more than 5.2 million times – Israel said it would not block humanitarian aid from entering Gaza via Egypt.
Hopefully, more high-profile athletes and entertainers will do something similar, as we all know the politicians only look after their self-interests.
While emotions are high over the atrocities committed by both sides, it is not a surprise that here, in peaceful Malaysia, many have gotten into heated arguments.
It happened in a couple of WhatsApp groups simply because friends, or should I say, ex-friends, only listen to one side of the conversation.
Some only believe what Israel and its allies say, and others only to Palestine and its friends.
When challenged about the truth or allegations, neither wants to believe.
I repeat that I am no expert, but the best way to understand is to stay informed by following multiple news sources, verify what is shared, and avoid jumping to conclusions.
We should exercise empathy and try to comprehend the viewpoints and experiences of those on both sides of the dispute. Doing so will humanise the situation and keep one side from being demonised.
Above all else, pray (or hope, if you are not the religious type) for peace. Both sides deserve it.
THE KELABITS LIVE
The Kelabit people are an indigenous Dayak people of Sarawak, with a minority in Brunei. Come and explore their culture, learn new skills, and immerse yourself in traditions handed down from generations at Berjaya Times Square KL, today and tomorrow.
There will be workshops on beading crafts, basket weaving, Bario rice packing, and traditional performances.
CARING MUMS DIWALI BAZAAR
Get ready for the Festival of Lights with this bazaar as Paradigm Mall brings together a line-up of home-based entrepreneurs offering a wide array of goodies.
There are also cultural activities, mesmerising dances, and captivating performances.
DONATION CAMPAIGN TO SERVE UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN
For every Scott’s product purchased at any 99Speedmart store nationwide until Nov 13, the brand will donate a similar one to underprivileged children.
The goal is to donate 30,000 Scott’s products, like Vitamin C, Multivitamin Gummies, and Scott’s Emulsion, to orphanages within the Klang Valley.
FESTIVE GOODIES
Enjoy delicious treats while supporting those with disabilities when you buy Deepavali goodies such as honey cornflakes, red velvet cookies, muruku, ommapodi, and more from MDC Training and Management Services.
Contact T. Mala Davi at 017-3503257 to place your orders.
FAREWELL, SUZANNE SOMERS
Suzanne Somers, American actress, author, singer, businesswoman, and health spokesperson, died on Oct 15 after a long battle with cancer.
She is best known for her role as Chrissy Snow in the comedy ‘Three’s Company’ – a television show that will definitely not appeal to today’s woke culture.
But one of her best lines in the show was: “You know, if women ran the world, there’d be none of these stupid wars!”
It is hard to disagree. Rest well, Somers.
To close out this week’s diary, here is the extended theme from ‘Three’s Company’.
