Emma, I read the article to which you linked, in your previous posting. Usually just referring to your earlier link is adequate.

I do think we have to be careful not to swing too much of either way: instantly judgemental or compassion without question. I don't know of too many parents who wouldn't feel some empathy with the McCanns, initially, or any other parents who have lost a child, but that doesn't mean we all go off into a self-satisfying demonstration of grief, etc.

It is a painful thing to watch. I wish the media would practise some restraint. It is insane, to me, that the parents are now looking for an even more experienced media handler. I can see involving the press as much as possible to publicise the loss, but not to keep the case on the front page, etc. But, we may never learn that lesson. The media bullshit and the total involvement of complete strangers, brings to mind poor little Elian Gonzales. No, he didn't disappear, but the media and stranger frenzy were as intense.

May her god watch over Madeleine, wherever she is, and bring justice to bear for the highest good of all concerned.