Author sees wounds in the perpetrator as the source of violence. This essay describes the nature and healing of trauma and offers view of health which can move us to listening, forgiveness, compassion and reconciliation.

The basic and sound idea presented here is that people and societies that behave violently and oppressively need healing from their trauma and pain, but the explanations are dated (e.g., on PTSD), the argument is not always clearly pursued, and some of the quotes are off the point. The encouragement for us to seek healing and reconciliation are better expressed elsewhere. However, the mention of The Listening Project, founded years ago by a Quaker in the rural South, may provide an excellent example that could be useful in any time. ( )

Reconciliation as re-connecting ourselves to dialogue and life and each other, with much work to be done (adapted from the back cover). ( )

PHHP #321