I just posted a blog about pet food, and remembered too late that I’d meant to include this note regarding October 7, which marks the beginning of the Middle East war when Hamas attacked, massacred, and ravaged the south of Israel, and took prisoners, which led to Israeli retaliation in Gaza and elsewhere. The war goes on and on.

I may well blog about this on Monday, October 7, but have also wondered how to mark this day without giving in to the climate of partisan hate that has mushroomed all over like a nuclear cloud.

I received an email from my friend, the Palestinian activist Sami Awad, whom I visited last month in Bethlehem. I respect Sami very much; he founded Holy Land Trust and is now co-director of Nonviolence International. This email offers three programs, each just 45 minutes long, over three days beginning Sunday, October 6. Please check it out.

I especially admire the Bereaved Families Circle, comprised of Israelis and Palestinians who’ve lost relatives over the fighting over many years, as well as the nonpartisan Combatants for Peace, comprising former soldiers on both sides who’re looking for a different solution.

I can’t think of a better way to mark this day. You’ll have to register; here’s the link.