Friday, May 6, 2011

Bullets for Everyone

The nature of conflict is one of continuation. The larger the conflict is, the more opportunities it has to carry on. For example, regarding the recent Osama Bin Laden Operation Geronimo (Seriously, did they really think that name through?) we found American streets filled with block parties and celebrations. As much as the man may have deserved to die- in what way does celebrating this bring peace? I asked a few people questions about the celebrations, and they felt that it was justified, given the parties that occurred on Afghan soil post September Eleventh.
Say what you want about who started what, but the truth of the matter is, the hatred for America goes much deeper than just 'religious freedom', and it started long before September Eleventh. If that weren't the case, they could have attacked any major nation, like oh, say- Canada. Conflict doesn't just start randomly. People don't make enemies for no reason. It is a mutual effort. Do I agree with the 'terrorists?' Heck no. I'm proud to be born an American. But the simple fact remains, terrorists, to themselves, in their eyes, are not terrorists. They are freedom fighters, and heroes. It is a matter of perception, and culture. Now take that into consideration a moment, where we just spent a full day celebrating and partying over what some (Terrorists) believe to be a hero. You are telling me, that's not going to make them angry? It is stirring a hornets nest, and these hornets know where you live. As long as we justify actions taken with 'them' and 'us', the conflict will continue on both sides, and only continue to grow. If you kill one man, his brother, his father, his sister, and his mother will want revenge. Violence begets violence folks. The more you fight and kill, the more hatred you breed. Personally, I would have liked this to have been quiet. The brave men of Seal Team Six to have done their job,  gotten out, and nobody to have known about it. Instead we have what is essentially, the proverbial shit show. Painted red white and blue for sure, but there will still be consequences. As an American, I am proud of my country and its leadership. As a martial artist, I feel sick, that we cling to death and war as we do. It will not be eradication that wins the war on terror. That is impossible. It will be an attempt at understanding, from one side or the other, and an extended hand. This is not a simple solution, nor a method of winning the war on terror. I don't believe I have all the answers. Merely pointing out that true peace is rarely built on violence. I want peace. And if desiring peace makes me a criminal, then kindly throw me in Jail.


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3 comments:

  1. Well said Sam! I have felt the same way all week - but you did a great job of expressing it! Peace Rules :)

    Thanks for stopping by The DDD - loved your comment!

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  2. In a garden of flowers, the pollen will spread more flowers...The wind (and the Bees) carries whatever we throw into the air.

    It's a touchy subject. So many people wounded by it on all sides. I admire your courage to open it up and take a stand. A lovely Mother's Day gift. Thank you.

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  3. hahaha..the last line was a good touch

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