When Compassion Feels Lonely -A Personal Reflection on Conflict and Humanity
Lately, I’ve found myself sitting with a quiet kind of pain. Not just because of the violence and loss I see in the world, but because of the way so many people react to it. I see people — on both sides of this conflict — rejoicing when others are hurt, when cities are destroyed, when children are killed. And it breaks my heart.
Some Muslims say “Alhamdulillah” when they hear of destruction in Israel. Some Israelis cheer when Gaza is bombed. There are people who post flags and slogans while civilians are dying — as if suffering can be owned or justified.
What I keep thinking is: How can anyone celebrate this?
What kind of world have we created where we clap for someone else’s funeral?
What My Faith Teaches Me
As a Muslim, I want to say clearly: Islam does not teach this.
It doesn’t teach me to hate. It doesn’t teach me to celebrate loss or suffering. Islam teaches me that all human life is sacred. That justice matters — yes — but that mercy is greater.
The Qur’an says:
“Whoever kills a soul… it is as if he has killed all of humanity.” (Qur’an 5:32)
And the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Do not rejoice in the misfortune of others.” (Tirmidhi)
That means everyone. No matter their religion, their nationality, or whose side they’re on.
Pain Is Not One-Sided
I see the innocent on all sides.
In Palestine. In Israel.
I see mothers grieving, children hiding, families broken apart. And my heart aches for all of them.
I’ve seen videos of people singing and celebrating while others weep. It’s not just one group — it’s happening on both sides. And it’s not the way forward. It’s not how peace is built.
You can demand justice without loving revenge.
You can grieve one side without denying the pain of the other.
I Will Not Celebrate Suffering
I refuse to become numb. I refuse to cheer for destruction — no matter who it affects.
Even when I’m angry. Even when I feel helpless.
Because revenge is not the same as justice.
And cheering for death doesn’t bring anyone back.
I know some people will say I’m being too soft. That I don’t understand history or politics. But I believe compassion doesn’t make you weak — it makes you human.
This Is What I Believe
I believe there are kind, loving, innocent people on every side of this conflict. I believe there are people who just want to raise their children in peace, without rockets or fear. And I believe we dishonor them when we cheer for their pain.
When I say Alhamdulillah, I want it to be for life, for healing, for safety — not for bloodshed.
My Prayer Is Simple
May the oppressors be stopped.
May the innocent be protected.
May the broken be comforted.
May the cycle of hate be broken.
May our hearts stay human.
Because no matter how loud the hatred gets, I still believe in something stronger.
Mercy. Compassion. And the dignity of every soul.
Even if that belief feels lonely sometimes — I will hold onto it.
Marianne Rothmann
- Cultural Communicator
