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| (photo: The Consumerist/Flickr/CC-BY-2.0) |
A poem I wrote after experiencing a physical assault this July will air nationwide on the NPR program "Being" this weekend (check http://being.publicradio.org/stations/ for your local time) following the interview with Rabbi David Hartman, but the entire show, including my poem, is available now on the website. Krista Tippett's introduction to my poem begins at about minute 46:25. Listen here: http://being.publicradio.org/programs/2011/opening-up-windows/
The poem and my introduction can be read on the "Being" blog here: http://blog.onbeing.org/post/8640670635/hate-crime-a-poem-of-grace-and-gratefulness
Luke, I discovered the wonderful world of Being with Krista Tippett a few months ago and downloaded many of the episodes on my ipod. I drive a good bit, and I get absolutely and totally immersed in her interview style and the amazing guest that she shares dialogue with. This evening I listened to the episode with David Hartman and I was completely blown away by your story and poem at the end of the show. I am still processing the impact of the random hatred and violence that just fell out of the sky on you for no reason other than you were available at the time. It is shameful and I wonder if the criminals that attacked you still talk about it and take joy in the doing. And if in the dark when they try to sleep if they every feel guilt for what they have done. And if they take a depraved joy at having never been caught, as the 'eloquent' letter from the police indicates.
ReplyDeleteI was touched and inspired by your poem; it is awesome. A fine medicine for the mental anguish.
I have traveled North Carolina extensively and stayed in Asheville many times and have toured the Biltmore probably 10 times. I love the Blue Ridge Parkway; especially between Asheville and Blowing Rock. Driving up to the top of Mount Mitchell always gives me a spiritual feeling.
I was so touched that I found your blog to share and let you know that what you feel and how you expressed it impacted me deeply - and therefore I'm sure countless more that you will never know.
I wish you great success, peace and contentment. Steve
Thank you so much, Steve. I know my response is very late, but your words mean so much to me. Blessings, -Luke
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