Peace is an oft-used word in modern parlance. In a world marred by strife and killings, it is an admirable goal deserving of full-fledged effort. For a sustainable peace going beyond cosmetic arrangements, a minimal intellectual honesty and moral courage would be in order. First, the acknowledgement that peace sometimes comes in incremental pieces and, second, the recognition that peace has to be built on a platform of justice. Easier said than done.
The vagaries of politics are such that non-issues are presented as key issues and core issues are sidelined as minor issues. For example, in discussions of terrorism, the question “Why” is often sidestepped or, if it is raised, then deceptive and self-serving answers rule the roost. Terrorism is bad, period, because it cannot distinguish between combatants and non-combatants. Likewise, weapons of mass destruction (WMD) threaten humanity. Terrorism does not become good if friends do it. Nor do WMD become acceptable because friends possess them. But theory is one matter and practical reality another. And the space in-between is never more evident than in the case of possessors of nuclear weaponry becoming the preachers against it.
The same applies to religious bigotry. It is fine when aWhite House padre assails Islam a là Franklin Graham. But not the converse. Remember the storm over Farrakhan’s remarks on Judaism several years ago when everyone and his brother were frothing. Words assert that the current conflict is not against Islam. But actions suggest otherwise.
Either it is principles that prevail, or politics. You have to choose. At stake now is the human condition itself, transcending the fate of any particular faith or people. At this defining moment of history, today’s generation can ill afford a wrong direction.
The path to peace is strewn with minefields. But genuine peace comes with a price. It needs a continuing fight for what is right. Also, the big powers have to cease playing favorites, constantly seeking exemptions for their friends.
A global environment, increasingly driven and divided by fear and anger, makes it all the more important to hold on to the rope of hope.
