“Never has America lost a war … But name, if you can, the last peace the United States won. Victory yes, but this country has never made a successful peace because peace requires exchanging ideas, concepts, thoughts, and recognizing the fact that two distinct systems of life can exist together without conflict. Consider how quickly America seems to be facing its allies of one war as new enemies.”
Vine Deloria Jr.
May you enjoy this extended weekend with family and loved ones.
8 Comments
Earl
I appreciate the spirit and honesty of this quote, and this is likely where I should conclude. Yet, historically, humanity has rarely managed to coexist peacefully with neighbors who are different for extended periods. Genuine peace demands universal acceptance, which remains elusive. We fight for convictions, desires, possessions, and, tragically, to proclaim our God as supreme. Worse still, those who incite conflict almost never pay the ultimate price. It’s absurd.
Love the earthy, spiritual and grounding feel of the photo. Onward!
Monte Stevens
I understand but I am one who believes and hopes in the universal acceptance that peace can be reached without conflict. Maybe I’m just dreaming.
Earl
Well I’m rooting for your dreams to come true!
Monte Stevens
Well that’s at least two of us!
Geri Oster
Aaniin, Monte and All. “I see your Light”. Perhaps that is a beginning to our peace. Blessed Memorial Day Fellow Travelors.
Monte Stevens
Yes, Geri, perhaps that is the beginning….
Tom Dills
Kathy and I are currently touring Ireland, and during our visit have heard the stories and seen the signs of past conflicts. But we’ve also seen the results of acceptance and reconciliation. Some lingering resentment exists, but overall the feeling is of a mutual desire for peace. It’s possible, but only if all parties are willing to participate.
Monte Stevens
I like to hear things like that, Tom, it offers hope. Our resentments can be buried deeply even through generations. So there needs to be forgiveness and in your words acceptance and reconciliation. But we do have to come to a point where we accept that violence will not bring us to peace and accept the fact that we can bring peace through other paths. I hope you guys are enjoying your trip over there.