Empathy won over hate

Sir — We are so lucky living in this wonderful democratic society here in Ireland. We get to pick our politicians, president and even got the right for women to choose whether abortion is the correct option for them when in a precarious situation. “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes,” as Benjamin Franklin said.

Today is Armistice Day but the wearing of a poppy is not obligatory. At this time of the year, though, I am reminded of the compassion and not hatred from a man who had just lost his daughter in a horrendous atrocity, the Enniskillen bombing. Gordon Wilson may have saved more lives with his empathy and concern for others, rather than showing hate and venom for what occurred on November 8, 1987. Some of us today will remember those from all walks of life who gave their lives for us in all conflicts. Ken Maher, Kilcoole, Co Wicklow