Having dedicated years to studying and exploring the history of the past century, I’ve finally come to understand the reasons behind our current predicament.
The Second World War was marked by devastating bombings, widespread destruction, and a significant loss of life.
Did we take any lessons from the two world wars?
It seems we’ve merely repeated the same patterns over and over. Conflicts in Korea, followed by those in Kenya, Malaya, Cyprus, Vienna, Ireland, Iraq, and Afghanistan ensued.
Is it any surprise that we now confront suicide bombers and ruthless killers in places like Norway, the USA, and Bulgaria?
Are we instilling in our youth today the importance of learning from history?
Through my observations, I’ve concluded that violence transcends race, politics, or religion. Mass murderers have existed since ancient times, long before Hitler and the indoctrinated youths of today.
Violence is an inherent part of humanity. Brutality and cruelty reside deep within our subconscious. Some of us may be fortunate enough to manage our emotions.
Consider the boy soldiers in Africa and the radicalized suicide bombers who believe there’s no alternative to expressing their dissent against society. They are striving to make their voices heard.
Indeed, greed, wealth, and power are the instruments of this turmoil…but ultimately it is within us to reject these influences.
If we persist in our current approach, we become mere followers, and further violence and wars are to be anticipated.
Education and dialogue are our weapons of choice. Now is the time for all of us, particularly the UN, to reconsider their tactics of threats, warnings, and sanctions.
Instead of deploying troops, let’s send educators.
Rather than imposing sanctions, let’s provide medical aid.
If just half of the funds allocated for arms were redirected toward uplifting those who are unheard, we might just succeed in curbing the senseless killing around the globe.
I sincerely hope that the Olympics will showcase the spirit of sportsmanship across nations rather than devolving into another tragedy.
Let’s give peace a chance.
by Professor P.T. Brown
