Dying for Life | Murray Kempton | The New York Review of Books

See original article

The Tragedy and its Context

The article reflects on the death of Secretary of Commerce Ronald Brown and his colleagues in a plane crash on Good Friday. It emphasizes that while the death of a prominent figure like Brown overshadows the loss of others, the article aims to remember the contributions of those who perished alongside him.

The Passengers' Motives

The author notes that the passengers' participation wasn't solely driven by profit; many were driven by a desire to aid in the reconstruction of Bosnia. Examples mentioned include David Ford (donating glass), Donald Terner (low-cost housing specialist), and John Scoville (focused on improving lives in Tuzla).

A Reflection on Life and Death

The article draws parallels between the passengers' dedication to life and the Christian message of Easter, specifically the Passion of Christ. It highlights the inherent value of life and the importance of resistance against death, referencing Biblical examples like Abraham's plea to God. The author points out the Catholic Church's stance on life and the shared value of cherishing life and combating its loss.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the author emphasizes the extraordinary dedication of the deceased passengers to improving lives in Bosnia. Their selfless contributions are presented as a powerful affirmation of life, prompting a concluding prayer for their eternal rest.

Sign up for a free account and get the following:
  • Save articles and sync them across your devices
  • Get a digest of the latest premium articles in your inbox twice a week, personalized to you (Coming soon).
  • Get access to our AI features