You walk up and shoot someone in the head. Years later the surviving daughter approaches you.
She asks you to admit what you did was wrong. You laugh at her and keep moving.
No answer, no admission.
The survivor isn't asking for much, but even that you make a point of denying her.
That's one aspect of what is happening in Guatemala. Not just murder but a topping of arrogance.
Generals and presidents are forgiven murder all the time. It's part of our pre-civlized order.
But insulting other people?
That is generally considered to be socially less acceptable.
Murder's a little hard to process, it's too enormous for the human soul.
But lack of respect is another matter.
Has anyone ever forgiven it?
Allan Nairn
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