Sir, - May I comment on your very objective piece by Kathryn Holmquist (April 27th) concerning Sr Xavieria, the interview one Prime Time and the various accusations this 78 year old woman is facing.
I can't help wondering if any one of us can truly say that we would have acted differently or better in her circumstances - we don't know what pressures or background she herself has been exposed to, to become so harsh and unfeeling. Not that cruelty and hurts inflicted on children can be justified or even excused but I still think it is important for all of us to remember that we are all frail human beings who may or may not crack up under pressure.
May I suggest that we bury the hatchet, which I know is easy to say for someone who hasn't suffered the same cruelty and injustice but I do believe healing of wounds inflicted by others only starts when we forgive, however painful and difficult that is.
That we focus our vision not so much on finding the truth about Sr Xavieria and others of similar past attitudes but instead try to help the people who have and are suffering the consequences of cruelty and denial of love by offering counselling and help.
Also that we keep an eye on such institutions and organisations who have a lot of influence on children to see that suitable people are put in charge and helped to make use of the right discipline to help children grow toe their full potential and feel loved in the best meaning of the word. - Yours, etc.,
Quarantine Hill,
Wicklow Town.