Trocaire Event

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On Monday the 6^th August, 2012 I attended an event organized and hosted by the Irish Charity Trocaire. There were about 12 other people invited to listen to a talk by Dr Izzeldin Abuelaish. Izzeldin is a medical doctor by profession who has overcome much adversity in his life growing up in Palestine and living through the conflict. His biggest test came as he lost three of his daughters in an Israeli Army bomb attack. It was evident to see the emotional loss of this man and his understanding of what has happened as he described each life as a “world” in its own right and how he was dealing with the memory of his children.

This man was seriously impressive, his humility and strength shone through the awfulness of what had happened to him, yet the absence of bitterness was for me very powerful. His insight into peace making had clear resonance with the Irish Peace Process with his emphasis on equality, respect and freedom.

He demonstrated that he was not a victim but a survivor who had a clear view of what needed to be done, he spoke passionately about the fight for peace and that non-violent methods were his weapons. A truly inspirational person he spoke of humanity, of the need for human collectivity and the connection between one human and another. The understanding, that for the people of Israel to feel free, safe and secure then the Palestinian people will also need the same and that this can only be done together.

It was his insight into the others needs that was striking in that he genuinely felt for those who had even oppressed him and visited so much hurt on to him, yet for them he wanted only the same rights as himself. He spoke often in medical terms and spoke of the newborn baby who when born is born free but only later imprisoned. He talked about the need to look at the causes and not just the effect. He meant everything he said which was great to witness, as there is nothing more engaging than listening to someone who is passionate about what they do and more importantly why they are doing it.

Izzeldin also shared a wonderful story with us, he has written and published a book, “I shall not hate”. He gave a draft to his 18year old daughter to read. She still lived with him at the time. After reading it his daughter e-mailed him saying she was now starting to know her father, this even though he had reared her for 18 years. Proximity doesn’t build relationships but sharing who you are does, so thank you Dr Izzeldin for sharing your time with me, truly compelling.