An eye for an eye

"I mourn the loss of thousands of precious lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy. Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars. Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate: only love can do that." 

Martin Luther King Jr.

I must admit that I am feeling some guilt for my delight at another human being's death, no matter how evil Osama Bin Laden was.  Of course he deserved to die . . . and yes, I am so proud of our awesome military forces.  It just makes me feel creepy to be so happy about death . . . it was a great day for America and the world in general.

When I started thinking about this, my thoughts went back to 9-11-01 and how outraged I was at the celebrations in the streets of some countries.  They were delighting in the death of innocents who were going on with their everyday lives . . . not knowing they were about to take their place in history.  

It made me ponder the philosophy of "an eye for an eye" in everyday life.  

In general, I walk away from controversy since I am generally a peaceful person.  However, back me into a corner and I will fight back like an alley cat with no remorse or second thoughts of regret.  

When it comes to world events . . . I am hawkish . . . the "eye for an eye" philosophy seems perfectly reasonable to me.  

Events like 9-11 are like poking a stick in a hornet's nest.  You don't poke it unless you expect to be poked back in return . . . it is nature's way.

I'm still feeling guilty over doing the "happy dance" with the crowds celebrating in the United States.  Having had a day or so of thinking about this, it reminds me of the song "ding dong the witch is dead . . ." and feeling a little creepy and have thought about the quote by Martin Luther King . . . still doing the happy dance.  I truly believe justice has been served, just as I believe in the death penalty for those who deserve it. 

Just had to think out loud since I am feeling a bit hypocritical at the moment.

read more

Agree to disagree

It is about peace and harmony in our relationships and realizing that everyone has a right to their opinion. What a boring world we would live in without differing opinions . . . boring, but more peaceful.

When we share our beliefs with others in a sincere and open manner, putting aside any hostility we may feel toward an opposing view, it may lead to opening the door to understanding differing opinions and perhaps a new way of thinking on both sides of an issue.

Rather than take on the idea that it is not a good idea to discuss politics or religion, taking the approach of “agreeing to disagree” not only opens our mind to a new way of thinking on a particular subject, but also helps us strengthen our relationships with greater understanding if the approach of gentle expressiveness is exercised among rational people.

If the discussion becomes irrational, I always take the approach of saying . . . “let’s just agree to disagree” . . . and quickly change the subject. Sometimes it is not worth it . . . but with the right approach by all individuals involved, it can be a growing experience and lead to greater peace and understanding of those with different opinions.

Opinions are one of those things that everyone has and makes us each a truly unique individual . . . share your opinions peacefully and your voice becomes louder as others will be more willing to listen . . .

read more