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12.26.2001

Reflections on God in the Post-9/11 world Listen Listen


Christmas tree donated by Romania in St. Peter's Square, Vatican

Forums: How were your holidays different this year compared to previous years?

View Robert Pinksy's "Favorite Poem" project

In his annual Christmas message, Pope John Paul II revealed his Christmas wish, "for a new humanity united not just by economic interests but by the unceasing effort to bring about a society that is more just and supportive." He also prayed that "God's holy name never be used as a justification for hatred — let it never be used as an excuse for intolerance and violence."

Across the world, Christian, Jews, and Muslims all celebrated holy winter holidays over the past couple of weeks. What is the real Christmas/Hanukah/Ramadan message in these uncertain times? This hour, Tom Ashbrook talks with his childhood minister about faith, hope, anger, and prayer.

Guest:

  • Reverend Richard Watts, recently retired pastor of New Covenant Community, Normal, Illinois; co-author of "Who is Jesus? Answers to Your Questions About the Historical Jesus."

    Plus, Part 1 of a series on "Poetry and Conflict" with former U.S. Poet Laureate Robert Pinsky.

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    Geoffrey Nunberg

    Forums

    Read Geoffrey Nunberg's Pieces on the Reactions to the 9/11 Attacks and Other Recent Stories

    The Language of Crisis and Conflict Listen Listen

    September 11th has forced all Americans to reassess the words that are used in everyday life. Sports announcers now refrain from referring to games as "wars" and from using words like "killed." Dot-coms no longer "crash and burn." In times of crisis, the language we use seems to carry more weight.

    This hour, linguistics expert Geoffrey Nunberg explains how the American vernacular has changed since 9/11. What do we avoid saying for fear of sounding crass? When words seem inadequate, what do we say to express our sadness and grief?

    Guest:

  • Geoffrey Nunberg, linguistics professor at Stanford University and author of "The Way We Talk Now"
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