A heartbreaking exchange took place today (July 16) between Israel and Hezbollah. Five terrorists, Samir Kuntar, the murderer of a four year old girl among them, were released in exchange for the bodies of Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev, who were kidnapped two years ago at the northern Israeli border.

The families of the dead soldiers were devastated and relieved at the same time. For two years they have been denied any information about the fate of their loved ones and harbored hope until the last moment — until they saw two coffins sliding out of a Hezbollah ambulance. Shattered, they cried out in agony that no doubt added fuel to the fire of Nasralla’s counter celebration. Cruelty and tragedy at their most appalling: July 16, 2008.

As always, despicable exploitation went on on television channels. One reporter thought it apt to speak at length about how “the sparkle in the wife’s eyes” has died out — after years of hope, during which it (the spark) apparently lightened up those eyes. This guy really enjoyed utilizing his rhetorical skills to squeeze tears and pity by describing a dark, solemn situation.

Radio programs were hardly any different. One station transmitted low-key sad music — an annoying cliche; another ignored the proceedings altogether — even more annoying. But maybe it’s unfair to judge the press: too often they are targeted for venting anger.

Still, it’s a good thing one can turn off the television and the radio. Praying for the families and their dead seems like a good idea for a believer; thinking about them and making some personal conclusions — for everyone. I would also suggest for the members of our government to take a long, hard look in the mirror. If they only can...