War always seems like a good idea when it starts, and a bad one when it ends.

War always seems like a good idea when it  starts, and a bad one when it ends.

Executed American journalists
James Foley (top)
and Steven Sotloff (bottom)

This latest war will be no different, despite our (quite justified) outrage at mass executions of innocents and propaganda executions of journalists.

Yet we go to war anyway, thinking "This time it will be different," or "We just can't stand by and do nothing."

I don't have an answer. I don't know anyone that does or did, except perhaps Jesus and Gandhi and kindred souls, but I don't think too many listened closely to either of them.

What does it really mean to turn the other cheek? Love your enemies?

Jesus was a pacifist, yet attracted Zealots (political and metaphorically).

How interesting.

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Is islam a religion of peace?

The better question is, is any human conviction immune to extremism?

No, I don't think so.

All faiths, all sects, all beliefs, if sufficiently fervent, can become horribly cruel.

[2014-09-12]

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As of this morning, 20 nations (many of them Arab) have signed on to eliminate ISIS/ISIL, even if it takes us into Syria. Why do I find this news heartening within three days of holding up Jesus as a counterexample?

Pacifism isn't easy.

Arabs will pay the heaviest price to stop ISIS, but let me tell you something: I'm not an old man, but I've watched a lot of military US military operations unfold, and I've never seen us stop with advisors. It's always escalated to include American troops. If Obama really does avoid sending combat troops, it will be a first, and good for him.

[2014-09-15]

Late development…

Saudi Arabia's Top Clerics Condemn Terrorism, Citing Quran >

If that's truly embraced by Abdula Al Six Pack, then Islamic extremism will end.

(Apologies to Muslims for my Sarah Palin reference. And the alcohol reference, too.)

[2014-09-17]

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