Okay, I think it's my turn to issue an apology.

I'm sorry it comes so late--my last post was written literally as I was running out the door at work, and I didn't have access again until this morning.

Irwin, after reading the rest of your posts, I withdraw my statement that you started this thread "in an obvious attempt to start a fight". I understand that this is an issue that pains you deeply, and one you are personally committed to. My response was aimed more toward the anonymous Guest who was so determined to provoke Alex.

I will say, however, that it's unfair for you to accuse Mudcatters of placing more emphasis on one child's death than another's. We did not personally create the Middle East conflict, and most of us are not embroiled in its midst as you are, so we can only look at it from the outside, glean what we can from the (admittedly sensationalized and biased) media coverage, and hope to be as objective as we can. I'm sorry if our outrage and sadness didn't meet your standards. Perhaps we should start a clipping service to ensure we are all equally informed at all times of all sides of every issue? That is the only way to ensure that no one will feel slighted.

For what it's worth, I work at a Jewish Community Center in Oregon. I am not Jewish, but I live and work immersed in Jewish culture. And those around me are all very conflicted about this issue. There are those of my co-workers who share your views; there are those who do not. Several of my co-workers have traveled to Israel in the recent past and have come back haunted by the issues they have had to face. It's not easy for anybody. There is very little untainted moral high ground on either side.

I'm going to stop now, because I never intended to say this much. But I am sorry that I unfairly attributed your motives, Irwin. Please accept my apology.

Molly