DEAR EDITOR:
I would like to thank John Mummert for expressing his opinions
on terrorism and the impending war with Iraq.
DEAR EDITOR:
I would like to thank John Mummert for expressing his opinions on terrorism and the impending war with Iraq. I do not share his views; but I believe that dialog and appreciating various perspectives is beneficial for our community, especially when the issue is the invasion of a country and the possible large scale loss of life.
The headline to Mr. Mummert’s letter summarizes, on the flip side, much of my position. “Invoking Christianity unfortunately doesn’t change the reality of a difficult conflict with a mad tyrant.” Reading that statement suggests to me that while we may nod in agreement with the teachings of Jesus, in the real world we have concluded that his commandments of love and forgiveness are impractical. Foolish are the peacemakers.
Basically, our intelligence trumps the wisdom of God. We are self-sufficient and in control.
Are we embarking on a new world order? It seems to me we are on the path to a new world of chaos, of perpetual animosity between peoples, of morality that is spun to suit our self-interests. How can we get ourselves out of this mess? What are the essential values and universal truths that can be applied in our world? Right now, just as it has been for centuries, the bottom line for mankind is power and the struggle to keep it or to attain it. I think many people would agree that our world is really messed up. If God isn’t the answer, and we are left to our own devices, we are in big trouble.
Mr. Mummert suggests that peace demonstrations “do not help the cause of peace” and would not prevent further terrorist attacks. What mechanisms are there that would promote peace? Is it not reasonable to seek alternatives to killing and maiming? Terrorism is fed by oppression and hate that seem to be flourishing and in ample supply. Despair and injustice feed the radicalism that lead only to more fear and violence. Not a pretty picture for our children.
There is a lot of darkness and fatalism in our world. We need some Light.
Mike Monroe, Gilroy
Submitted Wednesday, Feb. 26 to [email protected]
