Follow lead of Holy Land’s children
Peace and conflict in the Holy Land affects what happens in the Middle East and here. The current conflict could escalate to a nuclear holocaust. A two-state solution is desired by Palestinians and Israelis alike. It should be demanded. Political and cultural differences dividing the descendants of Abraham need a climate of peaceful tolerance so creative solutions can take root. How?
Children in the Holy Land are being taught five principles of nonviolent conflict resolution. They are: 1. Praise people. 2. Notice hurts. 3. Right wrongs. 4. Avoid put-downs. 5. Seek wisdom. These principles, begun in kindergarten, are designed to promote respect and tolerance through persistent competitive cooperation.
Security will be achieved by wise concessions and reconciliation by adults engaged in persistent hopeful negotiation. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, his commander-in-chief and Minister of Defense of Israel, President Mahmoud Abbas of the Palestinian Authority, President Barack Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, former President Bill Clinton and the Archbishop of Galilee Elias Chacour should meet and begin earnest negotiations using the five principles of the children. The children will be the real peacemakers and reap the indisputable benefits of friendship and love.
As part of the two state solution there should be a United Holy Land Peace Academy located in the village of Ibillin on the Mount of Light overlooking the Sea of Galilee and the Mount of the Beatitudes. There, a new United Holy Land pledge of allegiance should be established: “We pledge allegiance to the flags of the United Nations of Israel and Palestine, two nations under Allah/Elohim, demanded and established through peace, with peace and in peace, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all!”
The risks and rewards we demand are threefold. They are, as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has often said, “Shalom! Salaam! Peace!”
George E. Bedingfield
Arlington Heights