Cutting Edge - 'SHANKILL' A Film of a People in Conflict 1994 Troubles D...

"I mean what's absolutely clear from the last 25 years is that uh violence rather

1:03:34

than bringing about creative change uh destroys and damages So anyone who

1:03:40

thinks that violence can bring about creative change is is ludicrous I

1:03:47

remember Brian Keenan on on on his press conference after he was released from Beirut very graphically put it like this

1:03:54

He said "I have two hands With one I can make a fist to destroy and damage and

1:04:00

hurt With the other with an open hand I can lift a pen I can shake hands I can

1:04:05

write I can paint I can make music And it's basically the question of of how we

1:04:11

we'll use the red hand to holster as it were We can turn it into a fist or we can turn it into an open hand And and

1:04:18

that's the essential choice that we have Now the fist is effective The fist has

1:04:23

an impact Violence has an impact But only on the sight of darkness only to destroy Quite clearly only to destroy

1:04:30

It's the open hand to create that we need and in having an open hand to grasp

1:04:36

others Now that depends on others having the hand opened to grasp rather rather

1:04:41

than the fist"
The words of Brian Keenan resonate deeply, highlighting the stark contrast between the destructive power of violence and the creative potential of open-mindedness and cooperation. The choice between a clenched fist and an open hand is indeed a fundamental one, with the latter offering a path towards positive change and connection with others.