This is the opening line in a story on CNN by Oscar Holland dated August 29, 2024: “A 4-year-old boy accidentally smashed a Bronze Age jar at an archeological museum in Haifa, Israel.”
Do you think you can fill in the blanks about what must have happened next? Maybe not.
The accident happened at the Hecht Museum where its founder, Reuben Hecht, had emphasized making artifacts accessible to the public. So, the ancient jar was sitting without any barrier when the boy pulled it slightly toward himself to see what was inside. It crashed and broke at his feet. Of course, the parents were in shock. You might imagine how you would feel if your young son destroyed an ancient artifact. Yikes!
But hold on a minute. Here is what the museum’s director had to say: “The museum is not a mausoleum but a living place, open to families (and) accessible,” she told the news outlet, adding: “We are appealing to parents: Don’t be afraid. Things like this happen. We will fix (the jar) and put it back.”
There were no calls to lawyers, no fines imposed, no banning young visitors, no changes to museum policy. There was no panic or blame or hauling the parents to court. No public shaming or wild investigation. Instead…things like this happen. And also this…the director invited the family back to the museum for a private tour.
Oh, that we could all be so generous and kind when others break our treasures. That we could feel our disappointment and then let it be. That we could realize the imperfection in our human existence. If we might really know…things like this happen. Sigh.
Paula
Hi Paula – I recall a time one of my children spilled their milk and they said it was because the cup was slippery. Maybe the jar was slippery too!!! Great story. Forgiveness and letting go!! Thanks for sharing. I miss you but watch your messages on Utube every week!!
Hugs 🤗