{
  "$type": "site.standard.document",
  "description": "It is a hallmark of failing societies I’ve learned, this requirement that one always be in possession of a valid reason to exist. This is a haunting, beautifully written book and the framing implicit in the title and what the book posits is that you're either against the reality of what's happening now or will be given the numbness and separation that comes with time. Will you take that stand now while you can make a difference? Will you stand to risk and lose so much less than what so many have already lost? These are seen as difficult questions but they aren't, really, given the scale of the tragedy in Gaza. One day, when it’s safe, when there’s no personal downside to calling a thing what it is, when it’s too late to hold anyone accountable, everyone will have always been against this. I'd like to believe that calling this event a genocide, an accurate description, isn't dissent or transgression or declaration of allegiance. It's a recognition that loss of life is fundamentally tragic, on all sides. Opposition to loss of life and mass human suffering isn't an endorsement, it's a necessary stance in the face of so much tragedy. Loss on one side does not justify wanton violence being inflicted on those of whom the perpetrators hide among. But, for now, we argue, in this part of the world, the part not reduced to rubble, about how words make us feel. The author deftly weaves this tragedy together with vignettes from his own life, it's vaguely narrative and a bit dreamlike. It's grounded in his experience and understanding of the world and his perspective of feeling out of place both by being who he is and knowing what he believes. It's overwhelming to know what's happening is tragic and maddening to know that, while it's discussed, nothing is done. Words are exchanged and no action is taken. Whose non-existence is necessary to the self-conception of this place? And how uncontrollable is the rage whenever that non-existence is violated? So, yes, mourn what has been lost on all sides. But that recognition does not absolve you of the responsibility to take action while suffering continues unabated.",
  "path": "/reading/books/9780593804148/one-day-everyone-will-have-always-been-against-this",
  "publishedAt": "2025-11-08T00:00:00Z",
  "site": "at://did:plc:sttgf52vkk46f6yuknvqxvgh/site.standard.publication/self",
  "tags": [
    "biography",
    "autobiography",
    "biography & autobiography"
  ],
  "title": "One Day, Everyone Will Have Always Been Against This"
}