After Giffords Attack, Searching for Compassion

By Steven Philp Addressing nationwide concern for Representative Gabrielle Giffords, doctors have expressed hope for her recovery despite having suffered a gunshot wound to the head. According to an article posted by Haaretz, the bullet passed through the left side of the brain, including areas that control speech function; her doctors have warned that extensive damage in these locations could preclude a full recovery from the incident. “There are obvious areas of our brain that are less tolerant to intrusion,” said Dr. Michael Lemole. “I don't want to go down the speculation road but at the same time we're cautiously optimistic.” Although in critical condition Giffords has been able to respond to simple commands, such as holding up two fingers when prompted. Yet optimism is a precious...

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Yitzhak Rabin: 15 Years Later

In a moving column in The New York Times, President Bill Clinton pays tribute to slain Israeli Prime Minister and peacemaker Yitzhak Rabin.  "I continue to believe that, had he lived, within three years we would have had a comprehensive agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians," Clinton writes. Let us take a moment today, the 15th anniversary of Rabin's assassination by a Jewish extremist, to consider the leadership and vision Rabin exemplified.  It is no trite matter; looking past years of anger, hatred and enmity while preparing to make considerable sacrifices to strive for a better future requires rare levels of conviction and humanity.  Many forget the vehemence with which such moves were opposed, that the Israeli right juxtaposed Rabin's face with a a Nazi uniform, that there were myriad uncertainties posed by dealing with Yasir Arafat.  Rabin famously...

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