January 7, 2015. Another date to remember with revolt and great sadness.
I chose Voltaire, French writer, historian and philosopher (1694-1778), for my first quote of the year for Silver Threading, which honors the memory of all journalists murdered by extremists today in Paris for their satirical approach to politics and religious intolerance. Having been critics of religious extremism they paid with their lives for their freedom of speech.
My heart goes out to their families and to the French nation.
JE SUIS CHARLIE
François-Marie Arouet 21 November 1694 – 30 May 1778), known by his nom de plume Voltaire (/voʊlˈtɛər/;[1] French: [vɔl.tɛːʁ]), was a French Enlightenment writer, historian, and philosopher famous for his wit, his attacks on the established Catholic Church, and his advocacy of freedom of religion, freedom of expression, and separation of church and state. Voltaire was a versatile writer, producing works in almost every literary form, including plays, poems, novels, essays, and historical and scientific works. He wrote more than 20,000 letters and more than 2,000 books and pamphlets. He was an outspoken advocate, despite the risk this placed him in under the strict censorship laws of the time. As a satirical polemicist, he frequently made use of his works to criticize intolerance, religious dogma, and the French institutions of his day.
There is no way with integrism and destruction of people and ideas.
There is no innovation without free idea and ability to think what women an men want to think.
There is no possible solution if there is not the indignation of every citizen facing human barbarity.
If you are interested by this post, you can access to it and read also my website at: http://worldofinnovations.net/2015/01/07/je-suis-charlie-no-innovation-without-free-ideas/
Thanks for commenting here. I will check your website. Cheers.
Was not sure what had happened, and my wife filled me in.
Sad news. Incredible quote, in light of today’s events.
I found out a bit late too and was very crossed. This quote was an incredible match.
Thanks for your post Lucile. What happened yesterday is beyond shocking, we are devastated not only for the horrendous murders and what they symbolize, and I also feel sorry for all those moderate Muslims, everywhere, who will again be assimilated to a bunch of bloody terrorists. Terrible.I posted on this topic yesterday, if you want my 2 cent worth. THanks again for your support!
Nothing to thank me for, Estelea. My indignation and support to the French nation stems from my deep values and beliefs. I believe in freedom, equal rights and democracy, and condemn all forms of extremism and dogmatism, particularly this type practiced by these lunatics and terrorists. I’m just afraid that this will increase anti-muslim sentiment in Europe, and that generalizations will occur everywhere, which is also a very bad thing. Neo-nazi and fascists groups got all very excited about this event yesterday. You are also right that the risk of assimilation of younger muslims has been and still is very high.
I’m going to read you post. Thank you! And keep strong. Hugs.
Shocking tragedy, so very upsetting. After what happened here in Sydney less than two months ago. So, so sad.
Exactly. That one in Sydney was already too much to process and then this one happens. I’m very concerned here in Holland because there is a politician stimulating anti-muslim sentiment and this is very bad too.
Oh man, I fear it will never stop!
X
That is the worse part.
So grieved to hear about this attack, Lucile. Your quotation is well-chosen , but my heart is heavy for France.
Thanks Sandi. How tragic!
This reminds me of the way London reacted after the bombings in July 2006 and Ken Livingstone’s “London United” speech.
We must always strive to think and reason, respect and value each other’s differences and not hate people for the actions of a few mindless terrorists.
I second every word here.
Retaliation and retribution is what they want to see but we all should refrain from it to not become like them.
Agreed in every respect.
Lucile your quote touched me deeply. We, as writers have a responsibility to all humanity. Such a sad state of affairs. Peace and joy friend. 💖
You have said it all. This quote is timeless and very appropriate for that day. Peace and joy to you too! ❤️