It is my continued judgment that military action in Syria is not advisable. Perhaps we should continue to arouse worldwide reproach toward the despicable dictator of Syria. And all his supporters should be utterly ashamed of themselves.
Military actions should become less and less prevalent in the 21st century. Civilizations have simply outgrown that barbaric behavior. We need to trade with each other and embrace globalization (commerce, communication and travel throughout the globe).
Hate is the product of deep-seated anger and is a very negative value. Hate, envy, greed, revenge and selfishness are values that must be “cured,” globally. Between nations, these negative values are particularly terrible because they can invoke havoc on millions. Our civilizations of the 21st century can and, I think, will do better.
Our role as world citizens is to reflect deeply on what Gandhi stated, “Violence begets violence.” I wholeheartedly agree. Kindness begets kindness is my response and I’m confident that Gandhi would agree, as would Martin Luther King, Jr.
The United States should not rush to military action against Assad. But we should apply every pressure we can and hope and pray others will join us—including especially—Russia. Perhaps Putin is trapped within the twentieth century, but I hope and pray that he will awaken to the bright hope of the twenty-first century.
