Time for two-state solution in Mideast
It is my hope that this is forwarded to someone who has political power in the Holy Land. Otherwise, it is like a wishful sentiment by an ineffective contender for Miss America.
Peace or conflict in the Holy Land affects what happens in the Middle East and here. The present conflict must not escalate to mutual genocide. A two-state solution is desired by most Palestinians and Israelis. It should be demanded and not left in the Hands of God. God has no hands. We do. Differences dividing the descendants of Abraham need a climate of peaceful tolerance so solutions can take root.
Children in the Holy Land are being taught five principles of nonviolent conflict resolution. 1. Praise people. 2. Notice hurts. 3. Right wrongs. 4. Avoid put-downs. 5. Seek wisdom.
Begun in kindergarten, they are designed to teach respect and enhance security by prudent concessions and sincere reconciliation through persistent hopeful negotiation.
It is time to respond to the children's plea for peace and justice.
Specifically, as part of the two-state solution, there should be an international 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 from Sea to Shining Sea, from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean: "We pledge allegiance to the flags of the United Nations of Israel and Palestine, 2 Nations under God, demanded and established through Peace, with Peace and in Peace, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all!"
As Benjamin Netanyahu has said, and we demand, "The rewards are threefold. They are: Shalom! Salaam! Peace!"
George E. Bedingfield
Arlington Heights