WIX Archives
Re: When is an enemy no longer an enemy, and who decides?
Posted by Julian on Fri Apr 12, 2002 10:55:31 AM
In reply top When is an enemy no longer an enemy, and who decides? posted by Karen on Fri Apr 12, 2002 08:36:57 AM
Wow - for a Friday afternoon, that's a deep one!
My WWII-era mother cannot forgive the enemy of her time, but they are certainly not my enemy. I have no direct experience of war, and although I am British, the Falklands and Desert Storm were remote conflicts - it was fashionable to hate the Argies and the Iraqis at the time - but I don't now, though I would like to see Saddam disposed of, but not at any price.
Al Queda - Terrorists who claim to represent a faith or people whom in fact they don't. I watched September 11th unfold in company with a Muslim friend. I can't forgive them, nor terrorists of any other persuasion - that's not war, it's cowardice.
I have blazing rows with people here at work occasionally - it doesn't stop us going for a pint and a laugh later on!
Israel/Palestine - who the hell is right there? Both sides have a right to exist, both sides are guilty or wrecking the peace protest.
Russia and the West are now fairly good mates- who would have predicted that a decade or so ago?
I think, Karen, there is simply no answer - one year's enemey is next year's mate. Is that too simplistic? I can understand why people who have been brutalised by a regime, either as a people or a captive might find it impossible to forgive. Let's just hope the world can all get along better in the future! (yes I did have a couple of drinks at lunchtime!)
Peace, man!
Julian