Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@ Eric,thanks for your appereciation Eric,

Now u see the ground reality we had beed talking about that how come rallys and protests can be made..tomorrow on 12th,Former president Pervez musharraff asked the public to hold protest against pricehike in fron of a press club ,karachi...and this evening an explosion occurred near shereton hotel,police building in karachi ,just a day before a requested protest.

This Blast might be the indicator of fears of start of movement...movement towards total structural change starting with an issue of a common man's sufferings due to pricehike and inflation against which a protest call was given and virtually refleclected huge support..can we make the rallys on a virtual world??when corrups have jailed people in their homes by creating harrasment,blasts,snippers firings etc.? we must first check our own dustbins.

Posted on Thu Nov 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Aqueel,

I appreciate having this conversation with you, but I believe the talking is done.

Time now for the Muslims of the world to clean up the mess within their own community.

Or would you rather it be done by "infidels" like us?

It's a choice you have to face.

Best of luck with it.

EJ

Posted on Sat Nov 06, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

Is is important to get involved more and more people in this discussion .the blog is useful but we are not taking optimum advantage of this blog/forum because positive participation of evey community including muslim community can make this blog more useful and successfull..
Creating more awareness about this blog is the key.

Posted on Sat Nov 06, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

We are talking about everything other than the TOPIC..Gawdd
....its smart

Posted on Sat Nov 06, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@OC,
Go talk to the troops going through any international airport in the US on the way to or back from..., they'll do more to enlighten you than I ever could or would be inclined to try at this point.

Posted on Mon Oct 25, 2010

John P. in Greece writes:

@ O.C. in the U.S.A.

Ok! Time for LOLing. Eric is right again: “It's all just a vacuous smokescreen”. But now, you added some chemicals too. Heroin?

What this has to do with all?
1. We begun with the “U.S. engagement with Muslim communities worldwide”.
2. we talked about 9/11
3. we traveled to Afghanistan and Iraq
I (think) proved you that there was no conspiracy plan there, otherwise it would be just a walk in the park to find nuclear guns and make the “plan” even more credible for “public eyes”.

… and now you fetch “heroin” on the table?

Another conspiracy theory?
Do you mean that the U.S. of America sell drugs? Bush and Cheney & the feds? The new Administration? Everybody, all together? (I LOL about this new (old) one -scenario)
I don’t see any super market stores, neither (not Neither-lands/Holland) in the States, nor anywhere else in the world selling drugs.
Is it cash&carry; or retail only?

[Dear O.C. you should respect a little bit more all those DEA and CIA agents, who lost their lives fighting drugs – for sure, not selling] and please don’t reply me by using any silly example of agents, or operations that were “found by the media” to be around the “dirt”, because when you fight the dirt, you have to be near the cesspool. You call it a scandal, I call it a “chess sacrifice”. Otherwise, the bad-dirty guys win and you loose. If you know what I mean…

Comma ,

I told you, let’s go the humorous way.
I’ve got a new conspiracy scenario. My design. Free to air.
(I see you are running out of yours)

Do you know why the United States of America want to go to the Mars?
Why they spend so much money for research and NASA?
It’s not blood for oil. It’s water for oil. That’s why they search for water in Mars!
They use American money by saying “we try to find water”, in order to get the oil.
It’s because G.W. Bush, Cheney, Clinton, Obama & All.S.A. have found oil there.
It’s all about the space-pipes…

(a hint: that’s why G.W. is a pilot. In order to inspect the pipe-line, coming via the moon station)

I mean, everybody can make scenarios.
Just a “flight” in the playground park! (a walk in the park)
Reality, though, is difficult!

Posted on Mon Oct 25, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

world needs mothers love

Posted on Mon Oct 25, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

Its more if this blog helps changing mindsets of muslim community with U.S engagement and make each other realise that two biggest communities are great friends.
and they are working together within their capacities for mutual goal.
I am thankful to secretary clinton who's making sincere toilsome effort to get the chanllenging job don around the world including muslim communities and Pakistan.Her actions and attitude is so good that any1 would like her.

http://blogs.state.gov/index.php/entries/secretary_us_pakistan_cooperation/

Changing attitudes that leads positive impact is the core.

Posted on Mon Oct 25, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Eric,
If the war wasn't about sending America's sons and daughters to an illicit war to line the pockets of criminal politicians then enlighten me. Really Eric Dear, please enlighten me so that I can repair any confusion.

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@John P. in Greece,
Why would they blow up Iraq when they were profiting by stealing all of those billions of gallons of oil they never paid Iraq for and ferrying their heroin across the world? What you suggest makes no sense.

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

Exactly my point Eric from New Mexico,
When you figure out the conspiracy they send out the assasination mob squad and chemical spray and particle beam hit men that leave you with spots on your lungs and your brain scrambled, not to mention the black helicopters that hover over your house in the night though I did get a wonderful fly over by the President recently. He came very close to my window. Awesome and thrilling rush of American military strength and power as it shakes the foundations. He still hasn't been over for that cup of Kona yet...Just love the intimidating flyovers even if it scares my cat... Great Fun!

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@John,

It's all just a vacuous smokescreen to avoid discussing the real issues, and provides constant distraction from the topic thread.

I think you answered it for me anyway just about like I would have...(chuckle).

RE; "P.S.: I think that Eric will get you an answer concerning Iraq."

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

Bush and Cheney received lucrative oil contracts. What's the point? I'm not denying that people's lives don't improve. Just arguing against the perceived notion that all of this mayhem was done out of American benevolence. Did you know that poppy cultivation actually increased after the Afghanistan invasion? Why is that? America has its markets. It doesn't come from a benevolent notion to feed and educate starving children. Though, we probably could have made a lot more money by establishing schools and businesses because at least that way we would have deeply convinced the world of our kindness while simultaneously extracting vast profits.

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

John P. in Greece writes:

@ O.C. in the U.S.A.
Same conspiracy thoughts were heard during and after the military operations in ex-Yugoslavia. However, the “future” proved the “truth”.

Not only depleted uranium did not kill (still does not) all these different ethnicities and religion groups for generations, but also they found a “road map for happiness”. Now they live! Now, they have their own countries and all together work in peace for a better future. Of course, as Madame Secretary wisely mentioned in one of her inspired speeches, there are still plenty of things to be done. But, at least, it works and it’s better than in the past.

Eric wrote you (asked you) something, but you never replied:
“Ever wonder why we gave Kuwait back to the Kuwaiti's after the 91 gulf war removed Saddam's forces of occupation?”.
I mean we did not keep the oil. We did not stay there like Hitler did in many countries. We did not “dominate”. Right?
We did not stay in ex-Yugoslavia like Romans did in plenty of places, centuries ago. We did not “dominate”. Right?

I will also borrow another one of his “boosting” thoughts:
“The only way to end a war is to win the war”.

But, I think, that you are not so sure that there is a “war”. If I mention 9/11, instead of dropping cards, you will put your hand in the conspiracy pocket saying that this was also a “bad guys’ plan”.

You are also implying that the use of depleted uranium in conventional guns may be dangerous. Maybe! Not proved though! Surely depleted uranium is not the ideal!But, I can’t imagine how you can win a “war” by just throwing flowers. Hippies also attempted to do so, but they lost their “war”.

Please, this time, don’t tell me about the cow crisis, the chicken crisis, the mosquito crisis and all the other “conspiracy” crisis that according to your logic is a product of bad American and Jew plans.

According to my opinion, anti-American propaganda that used to be based on spreading conspiracy theories against USA has to deal with a new-millennium problem: some of you guys (I do not mean you) used this “conspiracy tool” too much. And now is “depleted”.
All of which means, we don’t buy!

P.S.: I think that Eric will get you an answer concerning Iraq. Nevertheless, I would like to comment on this question too.
Do you think that if Iraq’s military operations was also a conspiracy scenario would be any difficult for Americans just to “plant” some nuclear weapons, after they entered the country. Then, “they would have found” weapons and you, today, wouldn’t be able to ask “if then it was weapons of mass destruction”.
Did they?
No!
You see, it’s pretty simple, if you use common sense.

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@OC,

Look around and find your own answers, I'm not here to entertain your angst, and I certainly can't give you the answer to humanity's proclivity for self extermination over the last 200,000 years in five thousand charaters or less. There's a lot you don't wish to understand and the more you fragment the duality of existance the more you will just confuse yourself and I mean this as the litteral truth dear, not as insult. I can't help you if you can't help yourself.

Aqeel,

There's a secret to overcoming the seemingly impossible in terms of mending the social fabric in a society torn by war and devestastion...and the secret to gaining the confidence to muddle through is found in remembering one's joy...'cause if you arn't doing it for the kids, why bother eh?

The best we adults can do is leave them a world they won't be cursing us for leaving them to raise their own children up in.

See if you can remember your joy, you can build the peace from scratch, with enough motivation to keep it preserved and protected.

Hey if Europe did it after WW2, what's impossible anyway?

The terrorist of the small mind cannot grasp why it is mankind has built civilization on top of the ruins of civilization since we concocted social order on a civic scale ....which gets back to what I was saying to OC about just how long term certain aspects of the struggle we are in today has been going on.

(if one noted the "good sayings" and the reference to terrorism in that 2500 year old text I posted here)

One thing I do know is that America may be able to provide blueprints, but Pakistan must adapt them to fit the "Pakistani dream" not some adopted notion of the "American dream", because your future must be a reflection of the character of Pakistan.

Just remember what doesn't kill you will generally make you stronger for the hassle it was to deal with.

Ultimately though, even with our support you must do this for yourselves...we can't do that for you.

Same for the Afghan people, they must own their future, we can't hand it to them pre-cast in concrete...they must build the form and pour the new foundations they rebuild their house on.

What we are good at is changing people's circumstances to allow them to do that.

And we use a pretty well stocked toolkit to achive that in most cases.

That's why we would take on a challenge like bringing Afghanistan full circle by removing the taliban from power to get to bin laden...then creating the conditions for some 4 million Afghans to return home, and that incleded their former King..Zahir Shah...who not only didn't return riding on a tank, but on his return asked his people to embrace democracy as it was time and he thought Afghanistan could live without royalty in charge.

Sometimes you just can't return to the past.

But being whole, free and at peace is not dependant on what was, but what is, and what you make of it in the now.

We've seen what the people can do when motivated....if you gotta do it block by block, neighborhood by neighborhood, city by city, province by province then that's what you have to do collectively to put and end to the crime and corruption.

By the numbers...see you have the warm bodies...they just arn't as well organized as the terrorists are, and they are only in the thousands, not in the millions like you have among aveage law abiding citizens comparitively...so there's no need to feel intimidated, they are the one's running scared of your progress.

Why does it scare them? because your freedom makes them irrelevant. What's a drummer with a broken drumstick? Impotent.

When no one is marching to the tune of their intimidation, it becomes the same thing as castrating their will upon Pakistani society.

Simple. So remember your joy and get on with it...and have some fun with it...

Look if this was my country and Al-quaida or Taliban set up shop in my neck of the woods here in the Rocky Mountains, folks would issue year round hunting licences at no charge to the public. "open season" on terrorists..believe me...they'd be hunted down for sport...stuffed, mounted and hung on the wall above the local bar so the patrons can toast their demise.

And you wonder why we Americans have the constitutional right to bear arms in our own defense? Against all enemies foreign and domestic?

For just such circumstance as you might understand intimately.

I trust you'all will work this thing out and with a little help from your friends here, things will be looking a lot better in general by this time next year.

( I don't know about the "Eric ism's", too close to that to be any proper judge of. But if you guys keep this up, I fear the Dept. of State might just have to give me some official duties to perform in that regard(chuckle).

It wouldn't do well to have affected thinking unofficially now would it?

(grin)

Posted on Sun Oct 24, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
How funny! We have a lot of Mafia's here too. We can't even help our own country let alone Pakistan. Though, In Afghanistan they're starting to get some Taliban to dig canals and ditches. This is a really positive sign. If they could hurry and get Pakistan busy working, building and creating maybe the tide would soon turn. Pakistan could train massive numbers of doctors for Haiti and Haiti could build pre-fab houses for Pakistan. I prefer work over war. It brings everyone together rather than tear them apart. If only we had been building, creating, improving over the last 50 years, imagine where the world would be now.

Posted on Sat Oct 23, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Eric,
What has more than 100 years of war given us? And at what expense to the world? And what does it say about America who holds up the banner of peace, democracy and human rights to the world but allows torture? And then sends our native sons to die in war over a lie. First it was Osama Bin Laden, then it was weapons of mass destruction, then it was to liberate the Iraqi people. Remind me Eric, which one was it?

@John from Greece,
The depleted uranium from all the bombs will kill Afghanis and Iraqi's for generations. They didn't need to drop a bomb.

Posted on Sat Oct 23, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric & OC
I am happy that is forum/blog is gradually attaining some momentum else the purpose of this blog will go astray.Eric,as you say that pakistan goverment is playing both sides of fence..Your thoughts must be based on evidences instead of perceptions.However no possibilities can be ruled out ,if Pakistani goverment is plaaying also on the other side of fence,what could be the reasons,they must be identified and eradicated.I understand the concern of American taxpayer does indeed have the right to expect results from the Pakistani people, not just their government as aid recipiants.Yes they do have a right to expect positive desired outcom but if aids/grants are given to wrong greedy hands who prefers to fill up their bank accounts and dont even care for their own country and nation?
Yes , you r Feeding a whole lot of refugees and promoting their safe return to their homes but it would be better if you could help their return to their homeland and feed them there.These people apparently Afghani's only are not just isolated to their refugee's camps but millions scattered in urbal /rural areas of Pakistan & are involved in street crimes,decoities,drug and arm trafficking bombing and a lot more.Locations of their colonies are very strategic.They are trained people who have fought the war against former superpower..Each of them must be sent back to their country atleast now.This will definitely help in reduction of terrorism and victimizing innocent public of pakistan within pakistan.If goverment is failed or unwilling or not even bothered,then yes Pakistani public in various medium sized group under various nationalist titles/names should be trained to combat with this mafia and get our country vacated from them which is not easy job without sincere global/u.s support.A common man is suffering through street crimes,high level crimes,unjust,bombing etc which is straight away one form of terrorism.I remember one speech of Pervez musharraf when he came in power that there are 2 factions even in Army.so ur thought that pakistan goverment in involved on both sides of fence have the possibility.But that is Govt To Govtlevel issue,common public which is below the line of poverty,clean water,education is the worst sudderer of this terrorism.So far Pakistan had one and single leader ,pervez musharraf who delivered a lot to nation and played great role against terrorism out of his above average intelligence and vision.Now again pervez Musharraf is gaining popularity and his success of his campaign on face bookreflects around 70-80 percent public want him back as a democratic president.People of Pakistan love him but antistate mafia's created so many issues/constitutional problems that he had to resign.Pervez Musharraf understands that he cant give a call to public to make rallys in his favour at this stage because of worst law and order conditions.He doesnt want innocent public of pakistan to die while chanting slogans in his favour at this stage.U.S should use its influence to to give pakistan back under his rule.Vote test can be made on internet.It seems highly important for global,regional and national peace that Pervez musharraf must come back in power..Else its better that u use nuke on n.waziristan as well as on whole pakistan,then start reconstruction.Its better to die once than in bits and pieces..i a m honest.Pakistani nation is fed up of being victamised and sufferings due to greedy corrupted politicians and multiple mafias,I,as a part of nation of pakistan,request for the help and support through wise hands or invade directly..we invite u to rule.Pakistan should be devided into as many states as many languages are being spoken here and pushtoon should be sent to peshawer zoze,baloch shoul be sent to their state/province/panjabis should be sent to punjab,and other linguistic people should be sent to their newly formed statesUrdu speaking mohajirs should live in karahi/hyderabad/sukker zoze and Sindhi speaking ppl should live in other districts of Sind and there should be sort of visa/permit system if one wants to travel from one state to another.mergers of land may be made contributing some part of NWFP and Afganistan,Sind and India etc...

Eric,further,you have the right to insist and even force that Pakistan not turn a blind eye to those who may be in fact traitors to our people & those who make money from instability and uncertainty.Yes they should be prosecuted and punished..i fully do agree with you on this point.

@O.C..lol @ I wish politicians would learn to chant or do Muslim prayers because it would change their alpha brain wave patterns--yes we need to follow Eric ism:)

Posted on Sat Oct 23, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@John in Greece,

Dead frogs need scapegoats too(chuckle).

Sometimes it becomes neccessary to engage a false notion with an even more outrageous one so as to lend perspective on the absurdity of holding false concepts as "the way things are".

On one of Pres. Bush's last official visits to Mr. Karzai, he was quoted as saying to the Afghan President, "we could have done things differently." and no elaboration was ever offered on the comment.

Well in theory we absolutley have the capacity and the hardware to, at a moment's notice.

Which reminds me that after 31 years of chanting "death to America", the Iranian leadership is long overdue for a smack-down.

And 'lil Kim only needs to get uppity and threaten the US with nuclear war one more time.

I must note here that all bets are off if and when a terrorist detonates a nuke in an American city.

It is my understanding that folks have been duly informed as to the inevitable concequences of such an event if they played any part in it.

---

@ A note to FM Queshi, for his consideration;

Re;

"But let us not forget that we are once again engaged as partners in a momentous challenge, a momentous struggle. I would call it the defining struggle of our times. I am, of course, referring to our joint fight against terrorism. We are fighting an enemy that offers no quarter, obeys no law, and holds nothing sacred. We have both lost valuable lives. In case of Pakistan, nearly 30,000 civilians have lost their lives, and the ordinary Pakistani citizens brave a daily fare of suicide bombings as they go about their lives. Nearly 7,000 of our valiant law enforcement officials have perished in this fight, more than the combined loss of lives of NATO forces in Afghanistan.

Nonetheless, it unfortunately seems easy to dismiss Pakistan’s contributions and sacrifices. There are still tongue-in-cheek comments even in this capital about Pakistan’s heart not really being in this fight. We do not know what greater evidence to offer than the blood of our people. Madam Secretary, we are determined to win this fight.

The Pakistan our adversary wants will not be a Pakistan that the vast majority of citizens want to live in. We have no doubts about who are enemy is and what we must do to defeat it. I wish to show you that Pakistan will not allow any space to terrorists on its territory. Violence against innocent people is unacceptable. It cannot be justified on any ground. As such, there can be no distinction between good and bad terrorists. Pakistan and the United States share the goal of defeating terrorism."

-F M Qureshi


It is only fitting that I offer the honorable Pakistani FM clarificatioon on the following remarks I made here on Dipnote at about the same time he was delivering these (above) remarks on the 22nd;

"But then again Pakistan has "by circumstance" stumbled into the street and who would we be not to yank them back from the oncoming ill intent of terrorists before this becomes terminal to the Pak gov.'s existance?

Because then for sure we'd have to put combat boots on the ground in Pakistan in a big way. We arn't about to lose this war because some hadn't the stones to fight it."

@ To FM Qureshi- The only way your government will fall to terrorism is if "some hadn't the stones to fight it".

In case the logic of my original statement wasn't articlated clearly, I offer this as well; I have no doubt that the political will exists to preserve your nation, as well as the individual courage on the part of the people to do so.

The rest of what I've said here about terrorismn will have to stand as food for thought and until a full accounting has been made public, doubts will persist as to some inside the ISI and their ties to terrorists despite the apparent level of trust reached at this point between our governments.

You can start with AQ Khan and give the US full and total access to him. That would be a good thing to do to relieve folks the burden of not knowing all we "need to know" about his nuclear proliferation activities to safeguard the American public.

Reason you should not oppose this is what will happen inevitably if you've held back information that would prevent a nuclear terrorist incident from occuring in my country at any point in the future.

I don't need to describe the ramifications among the American public towards your country if the event were to be traced back in any way to your soil. You can simply forget any notion of enjoying soverign rights in the aftermath.

As I stated to Aqueel;

"The power of the people can be found in their diversity, and their dedication to being their own masters of their future.

(true in my country as well as your's)

These floods grant you the opportunity to build anew, the nation you want Pakistan to become.

It wasn't just because the need was great that I made donation, it was because I have faith that Pakistanis are up to the task."

Best,

EJ

Posted on Sat Oct 23, 2010

John P. in Greece writes:

QUOTE: if we wanted to "dominate"...in the classic sense of the word, I think we would have simply nuked the entire region…END OF QUOTE.

Simple, True, Intelligent phrase, most people cannot understand.
In other words, some times, especially if you are wise enough to act the logical way, you do not care if medium people think that “you can’t”, because you know inside yourself, inside your brain, that YOU just chose “not to want it this way- the bad way”. Otherwise, you would have surely DO IT! Because, in both cases: You can!
(I wish my English make sense – LOL)

@ people creating (all the time) conspiracy theories
Give your brain a break.
Oh! Boy…
You spend all of your power in creating, developing and spreading conspiracy scenarios that even a child can understand that it would be impossible for a “BAD decision centre” to administrate, all at once.

(here is a hint: the whole success is based on someone’s ability to improvise. But, this automatically proves that you cannot have conspiracy scenarios. Our world may be too small compared to the Universe, but certainly too big for running 100 thousand different “Bad plans”, powered by different “Bad groups”)

I mean, some people are still saying silly things about 9/11. Now you talk about the pipes. Tomorrow you will say that USA is responsible for the death of the last Belgian frog in Europe’s lakes.
If you don’t understand that you should give your conspiracy nightmares a break, please, Give US a break!

@ Mr. Drillman (CHUCKLE)
Thank God this New Yorker saved your life, no matter why, because he offered us the amenity to read your wonderful thoughts.

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@OC-

Pipelines...? Jeeze whiz,,I guess I can debunk the myth in a sentence or two...

If that's "why we are there" as you implied, then either the America Gov. is incredibly stupid and incompetent, or we left Afghanistan adrift for a decade in part because we had no interest one way or another in building one.

My guess it was the latter.

Ever wonder why we gave Kuwait back to the Kuwaiti's after the 91 gulf war removed Saddam's forces of occupation?

Hey dear...got news,...if it was "blood for oil" after all OC,....we must have been insane to give all that oil back to them right? Or maybe you're just dreaming...

I think it's the latter.

(This is where the average neo-liberal-left-wingnut ideologues fall flat when run over by logic.)

OK, so if there's "tire-tracks all across your back, I can see you've had your fun"...(-words in "crosstown traffic" by Jimi Hendrix.)

Later's...

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@OC,

You don't know me, and have no right to make false representation of my personal history, nor did I ever serve in the US military.

( Though there's a part of me that probably would have made a real good USMC drill instructor.)

See what you don't quite get is that attitude is aquired without indoctrination.

See how you are?

There's a time to be 'chill' and a time to become a terrorist's worst nightmare.

One can do both at once and keep peace centered in mind.

Try not to fragment the duality more than needed.

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

Correction: Saudi-Yemeni-Afghani pipeline. My Bad!

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

and a pipeline too, Eric. Don't forget the Afghani pipeline. That ain't no conspiracy theory......Hoooya!

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Mustafa in Egypt, @Aqueel in Pakistan,...due to the kindness of strangers, rumors of my intelectual inconsistancy have been greatly exaggerated...(chuckle).

Ask the taliban what happened when terrorists were allowed save haven in Afghanistan...? The very fact we are having this discussion is proof positive the US gov. has an enormous capacity to act with restraint, given that more than a few here in my gov. are convinced the Pak gov. is playing both sides of the fence.

My point in relating the comparison of US intent to that brief experience in NYC was that...not all things governmenmts do in the world are driven by political manuverings or any other such bearuocratic Machavellianism, ... ripe for the public pickings of conspiracy theorists.

(OC should take the hint)

We are after all a government "by for and of the people", and the humans in government being what they are sometimes act with heart, instead of with greed.

As for the question of "domination" in respect to hyper-power status;...look here, if we wanted to "dominate"...in the classic sense of the word, I think we would have simply nuked the entire region and taken Pakistan's nukes away at this point for safekeeping... just to have put an end to terrorists and any chance that any government or entity will ever get so stupid with the good 'ol USA ever again as to harbor them, aid or abbet them ...while we are in a state of war with al-quaida and associates.

We could do diplomacy by dictat if we had to, and we've had to in a couple notable cases already. But still even in our wrath we excercise extreme restraint in going about it, or... in a word ...try to be "civilized" about a most uncivilized activity of man, which is modern warfare.

Feeding a whole lot of refugees and promoting their safe return home is part of that...

Arn't we glad we haven't nuked bin laden yet...? Or North Warizstan for that matter...?

So let's be realistic, if the USA wanted to "dominate":, we could throw our weight around a lot more than we are inclined to... generally speaking. I'm sure the Pak gov appreciates that we don't as a rule.

But then again Pakistan has "by circumstance" stumbled into the street and who would we be not to yank them back from the oncoming ill intent of terrorists before this becomes terminal to the Pak gov.'s existance?

Because then for sure we'd have to put combat boots on the ground in Pakistan in a big way. We arn't about to lose this war because some hadn't the stones to fight it.

Aqueel, Should we now have the right to insist that Pakistan not turn a blind eye to those who may be in fact traitors to your people? That 5th column within your society that wants democracy to fail? Or those who make money from instability and uncertainty?

I suppose that is for the Pak gov. to prosectute the individuals responsible.

If we are going to invest billions in aid and armarments, the American taxpayer does indeed have the right to expect results from the Pakistani people, not just their government as aid recipiants.

If you are going to be in the same foxholes with us in the fight against terrorism, remember that making love and war have one thing in common. Don't do either half-way or you'll be hearing about it from your partner in the morning, and it won't be pleasant in the assesment given of non-performance and lack of satisfaction involved.

And then of course other options will have be explored.

So you might ask yourself why someone randomly pulled me out of the path of a bus and the answer suddenly may come that he simply didn't want to be witness to a bloody mess, and had the means and the presence of mind to lend me that slight assist as I jumped backwards (without which I probably would have had not done so quick enough, previously having lost my balance momentarily).

In a broad way, so has Pakistan...

It's ok if America doesn't want to be witness to folks making a bloody mess of things in the world isn't it?

And like that fellow, who grinned at me and just walked on down the road...we arn't asking a whole lot in return except a little self-preserving sanity to take root in the minds of men and governments.

That's exceptionally reasonable , considering.

EJ

Posted on Fri Oct 22, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
You're so funny! I agree. I wish politicians would learn to chant or do Muslim prayers because it would change their alpha brain wave patterns. They wouldn't be so self serving and self absorbed. They'd check their egotism at the door. Everyone wants to control the world when they should be controlling themselves. The world is sick of all the manipulation. We don't need Capitalism, Socialism, Zionism, Wahhabism. We need to follow Eric from New Mexico ism. It goes something like this, Hey! Everybody just chill, man! Sage sentiments from a former army, drill instructor.

Posted on Thu Oct 21, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@O.C
Oil shale reserves was an addition to my knowledge,thanks.True,Goverments invade other countries for their own self interests,even charity organizations seek their self interest first ,sometimes under the name of humane,sometimes the title of invassion is peace,eliminating global poverty,and a lot many attactive beautiful cover titles to play with human/public emotions..A frienf from whitehouse group wrote me that he/she does nt laugh on politicians for its cruel to laugh on animals..
If revolution is required,then it should be on 100% global scale..revolution of mindsets.else its hard that anything ll improve but yes can be suppressed with power and curse of slavery will get back onto common innocent people of our planet.
We are not advancing towards progress but going "Back to Egg"
Positive vision is important for healthy advancement when we decide not to rule over each other.Hunger for power is self killer desease-regs

Posted on Thu Oct 21, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric,
Speech is an index of mind and tactful wordings is mere siplomacy .As you wrote that "you are now much more stronger than that of ww2 to cause damage in wunk of eye".By the way are you equally capable of bringing "PEACE & HARMONY" within less than than wink of eye through calculated wise peaceful ways/manner??

2.By Eric:Thing is, we haven't yet used all resources at our disposal to bring a halt to it, and the longer governments support those who oppose us, the greater the chance that we will remove those governments from power accordingly, using all the tools at our disposal.

2(a)The inevitable concequence of your government's failure to take action on this matter is a choice given them by my government that they may either stand united with us in the fight or get the hell out of the way and let us finish the job.

The last think they will want to wish upon themselves is to stand in our way and suffer the concequences of our wrath

CONTRADICTIONS WITHIN YOUR COMMENTS/
the word "dominate" in the definition of "hyperpower" you cited isn't exactly the opperative state of being of hyper-power status.

Folks have a choice to follow our lead in just about every circumstance or not, and they generally realize eventually that we arn't doing this from a standpoint of national ego or to dominate nations.
Is nt It Dominaton over nations to force them to follow you and even obey/agree with you else their nation and countries will be turned into ruins??(As Told by U.S govt to Pervez Musharraf after 9/11 )Accepted by your goverment on medea and written in "IN THE LINE OF FIRE" Book By Pervez Musharraf .So right term is that folks have a choice either to follow yout lead or get destroyed-right?
After exchanging comments with you,reding between lines and your thought process that reflects the capability to cause famage to rarth and its innocent piblic instead of thinking peaceful ways to bringback peace and love , as it used to be decades back..i feel that U.S initiated the 4th world-war under tag of globalization..but why if things can be improved by other social scientific means?I will appereciate having your frank/fair comments on this besides,as you said that Americans are most introward nation.Sometimes ,its important to unfold urself to resove issues...provided theres willingness and intents to bring real reforms in the name of mankind and Humane.Physical revolutions are the things of stone age and obscelete..but yes,the the core is the revolution of mindsets. regs

Posted on Thu Oct 21, 2010

Mostafa R.M. in Egypt writes:

It's like this...Once when I was in New York visiting the city, I was waiting for the light to change on a very crowded sidewalk and got bumped by accident off into the street in front of an oncoming bus. Someone else grabbed me and yanked me back just before the bus would have hit and killed me.

Posted on Thu Oct 21, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@ Eric,

The government invades other countries for their own self interest. Let's call a spade a spade and quit with all the grandiose, high flutin' posturing. We're in Afghanistan to build a pipeline and get oil shale reserves not to mention its other rich mineral wealth. Can the Afghani's work with us or not? We can offer them this, this and that, in return for that this and this. Simples!

Posted on Fri Oct 15, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@ Eric,

Further,it is too important to send back Afgan refugees to their homeland.Most Afganis are mixed up with pushtoon are liviving in communities in urban cities.Most of them engaged in high crimes including drug,arm and women/girls trafficking.they are not only adding more currution to the country but have become internal threat to country/nation.Apparantly they are engaged in small roadside bisinesses but their roots are too strong even deep into goverment system idirectly-We must not forget that they are trained warriors who have gonne thru wars against USSR and are pro talibanization.This is one are which is important too to be addressed.

Posted on Fri Oct 15, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@EJ
Revolution,to my understanding, means structural change in governance at all level,preferable start from grass-root level.When Goverments become too corrupt and common man's sufferings keep on increasing every minute,definitely we need to correct it by any means.Their are examples of colour,velvet,orage and budozer revolutions.In Pakistan,ex president Pervez Musharraf was working on such line to bring structural changes(Revolution) in peaceful manner by which general public would not suffer from bloody revolution.But corrupt civil goverment was imposed on the nation.Zardari could nt win elections which were was offerred to him as a cake in gold tray, if demised Benazir would nt be assasinated.(To me,it seems all tactfully planned)No body ever liked Zardari and during former tennure of late Benazir Bhtto,Zardari was famous among public as Mr.10 percent..so how logically it is possible that public would vote for him..may be that was emotional reaction of pakistani public to cast vote in his favour.There are rumours that he himself was involved in Benazir's assacination.
My concern is that if public finally stands up and make rallies,it cant be ruled out that there could be bomb blasts or snippers firing over innocent public which is already deprived and sufferer.Consequenly,theres a need for peaceful revolution ,not the bloody revolution.Like everyone,Pakistani nation too dont want any more sufferings but theres a wise leadership gap.Respected Pervez Musharraf resigned for peace,but now public realise the value of jwel.We want him back which is apparent & visible on his FB campaign.
As we all keep on learning as its endless process,we must have learnt to bring even better and more peaceful ways to bring revolution than those of velvet,color,orange etc.As you said,U.S doesnt fight and kill innocent public but make wars only against goverments to liberate victim nations,bring peace and improve quality of life of a commoner.Stratigically,Ex respected presidend Pervez Musharraf was also trying to bring bloodless revolution in the country by bringing structural changes in governance right from grass root level but feudal lords,mafias and other elements did not let him accomplish the task for their own interests but they do'nt know they could stop that tide of sophisticated bloodless revolution only temporarily.
Now coming to the point that you highlighted that ISI is supporting Talibans..This is though provoking statement in my mind.Why ISI should support Talibans?Do they have fears from U.S?or their mindset and thought process is altered after going through Afgan-Soviet war-Or they Get money...there must be reasons..so reasons should be identified and addressed else structural change in ISI should be brought ..but cores are the reasons..and those reasons must be eradicated .Even if their ranks are purged,still the reasons that change their mindsets or curruopt them must be abolished -Kerry lugar bill have been passed and accepted by this goverment then why its difficult for U.S to bring structural change in ISI too?We need peaceful solution to all this -nation need external help too..and you would agree that nothing is out of impossible..All what counts are intentions and motives,not tools
regards.

Posted on Fri Oct 15, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Aqeel,

In a world that is driven by international concensus and cooperative venture to sustain what we humans call "civilization", I think it's safe to say that if you have a group of people lost in the woods, one among them either leads the way out or they remain lost.

So the word "dominate" in the definition of "hyperpower" you cited isn't exactly the opperative state of being of hyper-power status.

Folks have a choice to follow our lead in just about every circumstance or not, and they generally realize eventually that we arn't doing this from a standpoint of national ego or to dominate nations.

Far from it.

It's like this...Once when I was in New York visiting the city, I was waiting for the light to change on a very crowded sidewalk and got bumped by accident off into the street in front of an oncoming bus. Someone else grabbed me and yanked me back just before the bus would have hit and killed me.

The fellow who did wouldn't even let me by him lunch, nor accept my thanks.

He just said, "Welcome to New York."

You may take from this as in micro-cosim, for why my government does the things it does around the world to help people in need.

Because we can.

Ever since our founding we've been "walking point" for humanity on patrol into the future, inspiring revolution of mindsets, and physical revolution for the freedom of many, fought a civil war to create a more perfect union, and fought wars to protect the freedom of others.

Well, that's one way to win friends and influence people, and feeding the world happens to do both on an existential level that is far more subtle and pervasive.

You want to break down walls, you must use the proper tools. I mean you can chip away at it with a hammer, but we tend to simply use a buldozer in a lot of cases, because we can being there's one avalable.

Thus the docrrine of the use of overwhelming force to defeat those who call us "enemy" and pose the notion of war upon us as ideological imperative get a true taste of what we are capable of...just remember we are capable of doing much more damage in the blink of an eye than we have ever employed on any battlefield since the end of WW2.

We have been at war that was declared upon us for longer than we've ever fought one in our history. The American public is never keen on being at war, but it would be a mistake to think we'd just walk away without winning it, hands down.

Thing is, we haven't yet used all resources at our disposal to bring a halt to it, and the longer governments support those who oppose us, the greater the chance that we will remove those governments from power accordingly, using all the tools at our disposal.

The Pakistani government faces much more than drone strikes to contend with on their territory if they do not purge their ranks of those in the ISI who are arming and supporting the taliban.

The inevitable concequence of your government's failure to take action on this matter is a choice given them by my government that they may either stand united with us in the fight or get the hell out of the way and let us finish the job.

The last think they will want to wish upon themselves is to stand in our way and suffer the concequences of our wrath.

If your government wishes to take soverign pride of ownership in its own struggle to be democratic, then it has obligations to meet in the war on terror.

We cannot allow you to compromise that on the national level, because anything less represents an existential threat and puts the outcome of this struggle in some considerable doubt. Doubts you have spoken of where it concerns "corruption".

If your government remains divided as to its intent, then yes it will fall as a failed state.

But the bright silver lining in all of this is the people of Pakistan who recognise the danger they face. Not from the US, but from those who would make war upon us and your government and the people of Pakistan.

When the people rise up as they did in Swat, then humanity can indeed anticipate miracles for peace.

But your nation must decide whether you wish to own the peace or be possesed by war.

One creates their own reality.

EJ

Posted on Thu Oct 07, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

A thought to share with ever one on this forum.

the thought just came in my mind that if the dot lying between "U"and "S"(U.S)is removed it will sound as "us"(US) that gives that gives the meaning of togetherness,oneness on country to country and individual to individual basis regardless of that who lives in which part of the Earth,regardless that who have which faith,colour,creed cast etc or other factors that devide us,we humans.

devided,we fall

Posted on Thu Oct 07, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric
I agree after going through wikipedea to find exact meaning and defination of the term"Hyper-Power" that made me to to understand and agree that yes U.S is Hyper-power,a step ahead of Superpower that have influence over other countries too.(A hyperpower is a state that dominates all other states in every sphere of activity. A hyperpower is traditionally considered to be one step higher than a Superpower-After the end of the Cold War, some political commentators felt that a new term was needed to describe the United States' position as the lone superpower. The term "hyper-power" was first used in 1991 by Peregrine Worsthorne. French Minister Hubert V�drine popularized the term "hyperpower" in 1998).
Your previous comments also made me go through a bit of U.S history and how did it was forced to get involved in WW2.Thanks for adding more to my knowledge :)
I think the top priority is to achieve Global PEACE through Peaceful ways/manner and not only just any country but each individual will be benefitted once global PEACE is fully achieved,economies and quality of life of people will obviously be improved and I personally appereciate U.S efforts/contribution to this global cause of Humanity.
I definitely say that global leaders MUST get good grip through right machinery,mechanism of people true and sincere to cause and their leadership.Selection of effective machinery,mechamism of right/sincere people/tools is important to get the task achieved.
World is kept on changing since it came into existence,Change and resistence towards change is natural phenomenon-Yes this is time to change it all but we cannot overlook the factor of Natural Resistence towards any change" and must have proactive approach to disfuse that natural reistence for the cause of "GOOD" i.e to bring back Peace and harmony in the interest of every single individual and our future generationss.The term"Hyper-power" automatically establishes the fact that U.S is Global leader in every term including vision,technology,wisdom,law etc.Being hyper-power,her positive domination and influence to bring global peace and bringing various nations,culutures closer through smart & peaceful ways will surely result in win/win outcome to every nation,country,individual.Our planet will become a good place for every life to live again.
Regards.

Posted on Thu Oct 07, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Aqeel,

There's another way of looking at super-power status...as in whether you feed the world or not...and by that definition we are definately a hyper-power.

But that doesn't meen we'd be unwilling to help other nations become as powerful a force for humaniy's survival...it's in our own national interests...(chuckle).

Sort of takes the cold-war politics right out of the equasion, doesn't it?

And you wonder why I suggest world leaders get a grip?

It's just logical deduction.

There's a right way and a wrong way to excercise power. There are priorities and then there are priorities, and mostly folks have them all messed up and that's why human progress travels on the back of a snail in most cases.

It's time to change all that.

EJ

Posted on Sun Oct 03, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric

I appereciate your faith ,which is big word ,in pakistani's that they are upto the task but it is better if any grants made to the public must be through uncorrupted challnels or direct from public to public.
I offer my thanks to yo you and others who are blessed with the power to love humanity for making grants to flood victims.
regards & take care dear Eric

Posted on Sat Oct 02, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric,
Dear Eric,
I dont disagree that every body's perspective including myself is from his/her eye's views,experiences,surroundings,political enviroment ,level of knowledge/research and many other factors which,I guess, is not out of normal.How ever level of knowledge and research cant be ruled out .We agree and disagree on same points/issues keeping the process of dialects(Agreement out of disagreement) to move on and on.Synthesis is achieved and then that synthesis again start working anti-thesis giving birth to thesis(Thesis=.anti thesis=>synthesis=anti-thesis) and this chain process goes on.
.Before WW2 world was peaceful enough & US initial prewar allies were only 3 countries including italy.US,the pro-peace country was forced to get involved in WW2 by japnese attack on Pearl Harbour inspite of US President final PEACE appeal to the Empire of Japan on Dec 6th'1941 to which was unaswered.Obviously U.S was left with no choice except to develop the war strategy against Nazism with the help of its 3 major WAR ALLIES,GB,USSR,France and U.S itself that led to liberation of victimised sufferring nations/ppl..I truly appereciate your thoght process when u say that how these suffering nations could be refused when u had means,an obvious reflection of humanity and pro-peace approach.So how I or anyone can US is hyper-power,obviously Not.US may not want to rule the world,but definitely world needs a good ethical humanist wise global leader,not a ruler in its real meaning.Would you disagree that theres a true good leasership gap on global scale?So why not to offer that leadership through grobal democratic system if you have means and believe in humanity?I dont say that US wana b policeman of the world for it gives little negetive impact on minds but yes world and particularly young teenaged juvennile delinquent countries need a seasoned mature parent with successful proven system of law ,justice,wisdom & balanced fear and hope inductions to b implied through right tools,machinery and effective mechanism,,even religion/faiths talks of hell and heaven as marketing planning teaches of fear of loss and achievement incentives/oppoptunities through challenges.

I am happy that many Americans respects Pervez Musharraf ,reason is that they are literate and when i use term "literate"i just dont mean formal academic education.Likewise,Huge number of pakistanis including myself not only respect our great leader and ex-presidend Musharraff but truly love him and wants him to govern Pakistan because they believe & Trust in his broad vision for the need of today & tomorrow,his sincererity to country and nation,his proven reforms ,peace,economic,welfare policies of a commoner. To me he has every thing even to be a top leader of not just Pakistan but whole Moslim world.The moment he left his seat by himself which hardly happens in countries like Pakistan,the country started falling down,nation got deprived and victimised and thrown into suffererings by feudal lords,caliphate believers and greedy politicians just for their own vested interests but it was important that should leave his seat at that time so that commomer who's starving in fear and insecurity now can feel the difference and realise what they had and did nt treassure.I personally believe in his broad vision and high degree of intellect and that s the reason why i joined his support group Pasdar-e-Pakiskan when came to know that its his political party via FB.

On your comment:( I don't know how well this aspect of American culture will translate into Muslim courtship customs among young men and women, but I'll leave that to interpretation),I think atleast dialects can be initiated on various virtual forums.
U.S and moslims have historic relationship,beyond doubts U.S have had always been supportive and Almost all moslmim countries are US allies.By now,i think long disputed palestine issue should be resolved but there seems to be need of induction of more willingness to resolve this problem on both ends and to my little understanding,i guess its on the second priority after climate change.But climate change will take long enough.Second one is kashmir issue that has to be resolved & it was so close to its settlement during Pervez Musharraff regime.Settlement of these 2 issues,reactivating and functionalizing of OIC under intelligent leadership sincere to cause can truly help.I think starting point can be coming back of ex-president Respected Pervez Musharraf into power in civil cloth now and also lead the OIC.Just imagine how much yield and productivity for "GOOD" can can be generated if largest and second largest nations get united.Its in the interest of our world,our planet,our next global generations.
Regards and take care.

Posted on Sat Oct 02, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Aqeel,

Your perspective is from your eye's view, as is your own experience and standpoint within your surroundings, environmentally politically, the whole of the human condition being incorperated into that perspective.

But did the US intend to be this so called "hyper-power" ?

I think what you'd find in the record is that we sort of filled a void after WW2 that would have most likely been filled by somethig far less democratic or peaceful.

We really didn't have a whole lot of choice in the matter because so many were looking to us after winning that war and liberrating nations to keep on keeping on being that beacon of hope to those still seeking freedom from fear, want,poverty and disease.

How could we say no when we had the means?

The need was great and folks stepped up to the plate.

Now everybody gets their turn at bat, and maybe if folks don't be swinging at wild pitches, humanity will score runs in the game of life.

Politicians can promis the moon, it's what they leave on the ground as legacy that will cause them to be cursed or praised by the people.

Inherantly because of the nature of our political system, most Americans can respect a man like Pervez Musharref for walking away from power and trying to help create a peaceful transition to democracy.

It's the attachment to power that messes with people, causes a lot of misery and all democracy really does is give the people not just the power of the vote, but the power to remove their leadership if they abuse it.

(we are still trying to perfect this system by the way)

Thing is America simply has no hegemonic ambition, we arn't attached to the notion of ruling the world. We defeat those who would try on the battlefield. Or by other means.

All we really ask is that folks try not to bring their problems to our door, and when they need our help, we do it for the people of a nation, not their government per se.

Even though we may have the best of relations with that government, that separation is why we don't war against peoples or religions either, but only against governments to deny them the ability to make war upon us, our allies, or their own people, or those of any other nation without just cause. We never intended to become a "world's policeman", that was by default since the alternative of global tyrany was unacceptable. We don't recognize any "Califate", or "sphere of influence". It's just another word for meglomania.

We've been fighting and dying to help Muslims gain freedom for over twenty years, and we have pretty good relations with all the Muslim nations and peoples of the world because we left a legacy on the ground that brooks no debate about that.

Oil keeps the wheels of civilization turning in every corner of the globe. America is not after people's oil, they own it./ What we do to preserve stability is assuring that it can get to market so the wheels of civilization don't grind to a halt. That's in everyone's interests.

I think if you consider this for a moment you may find a very profound truth about my nation's intent towards other nations, one you see as a change in policy , but in actuality has been there all along through multiple administratiuons and Presidents.

I believe also you will find a common thread in the development of democracy, is that it is usually born out of strife, weened on disilusion, taught by trial and error, blessed by adversity, and that corruption is like its adolesencent stage of uncertain pubescence. Leaving people about as uncertain of the future as a teenager on a first date.

( I don't know how well this aspect of American culture will translate into Muslim courtship customs among young men and women, but I'll leave that to interpretation)

When ethical infants are in charge, having fooled the people, promising the moon and delivering hell instead to the people, it is the people who learn to be ever vigilent in protecting their democracy.

Despite cultures, religions, languages, all the things that make a people unique and give them national identity, there are common predictable stages democracy goes through to adulthood, and America at the ripe old age of 230+ years is still learning new tricks to create a "more perfect union".

In one's lifetime, does anyone ever stop learning?

America is probably the most introverted nation on the planet, we are our own worst critics, because we demand so much of our government and we won't settle for less that maximum effort on the part of the elected to do right by us or be removed as unacceptable representation to our will.

The power of the people can be found in their diversity, and their dedication to being their own masters of their future.

These floods grant you the opportunity to build anew, the nation you want Pakistan to become.

It wasn't just because the need was great that I made donation, it was because I have faith that Pakistanis are up to the task.

Take care,

EJ

Posted on Mon Sep 27, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@ O.C Continued ref:alpha1
Neuclear,gurilla war and other leathal technologies were caught and purchased by many goverments.USSR scientist were hijacked or kidnapped,their warfare experts formed many mafias in the world,Pakistan ,being less advanced country became worst victim of terrorism,insurgency etc-U.S paid paign to give the taste of U.S own medicine was launched and process of changing mindsets of moslims and cristians was started to make them apart-theres strong possibility that 9/11 case may also have some link with revengeful strategic planning of KGB's and war planners..Inshort..moslim world,particularly pakistan and U.S.A became major sufferers because of 2 reasons..1.we did nt plan to combat the other forms of possible rebount from ex-superpoer and 2.U.S should have waited a bit more and strenthen its infrastructure in almost every term including intelligence/global intelligence system and economic areas before taking step to become a single super power and global president/king..so we are paying its price because there was no consolidated plan to combat the backfall of breaking down USSR and make Unipolar world.But now U.S trying to fix things.fine,its better to be late than never-I remember that the world was quite peaceful place during bipolar system except mild turbulances.Common man was not in as bad conditions and mafias were not dominating world the way they do now.Global economy declined,U.S tried to improve its economy by fighting couple of wars and then reconstruction of destructed countries like kuwaite reconstruction,iraq's Oil but wars are short term solutions which run parallell to longterm solutions which is happening now..pen is powerful than sowrd and you get what you negotiate,not what you deserve..I am Happy that President Obama/U.S policy is trying to fix things globally in smart peaceful manner.Now becoming precise to your comment,In Pakistan,literacy rate is too low,innocent and illiiterate public with lesser vision who are in majority is being foold around by feudal lords and corrupteted politicians who after coming in power loot the country ,their public misguide the world for extorting money in their very own interests.Yes Pakistan do have a lot of uncorrupted people with clear vision who wants many reforms.But corrupted politician,leaders seems to be attached to mafias or have their own mafia's which is very powerful and dont let uncorrupted people come up for the sake of their own interests,hunger and greed for money and power.If Pakistani public rally around all over the country for uncorrupted leader..theres every possibilty of bomb blast,snippers firing etc on the rally and general public.fear of death and killing have been induced in public minds by handful corrupted lords/leaders who have made the nation captive and on top of that entangling them into economic crises to keep them aloof from raising voice against them and work hard to earn a penny for milk of their kids so that they can never take a stand against corruption because of fear ,insecurity of their families and hunger.In such a jungle scenairio,obviously pulic will seek support from the global leader and time tested friend who have humane,whos stronger than the mafia which made the nation captive by playing with their emotions as pakistani public is not as literate and very emotional ,Victims of such a situation will naturally look for some support from global leaders country who have proven successfull system of justice,law,wisdom etc.Specially when theres some1 who can help fixing things and working for global causes and have vision that talks of public to public relationship that may help.World needs a real good global leader but if father fails,public ll have to find a mom.Global next generation must be saved-our planet must be a happy planet-how it can happen?obviously if we all globally unite and take every good cause as a mutual cause round the globe and thats the essence globalization.This was one reason why i wrote on linkedin about ONE WORLD,1 army,1 global nation,1 currency,common natural resources..it was nt a fiction thought that we all have to wait to be cohesive when UFO's attck us.UFO's can be from within too.Americal problem is not just America's problem(related to insurgency and intelligence),Pakistan's problem is not just Pakistan's Problem,Indian or Gaza,palestinan problems are not just their respective problems..they are common global problems that needs to be fixed by global mutual efforts with sincerity.Every individual,every country is somehow is related to each other.It has to be ONE WORLD and USism must be implied to every corner of world for it proved success.Clinton was so wise talking about no boundaries,no visa's and Hillary is too wise who's working for public to public relationship.
that ll definitely be helpful ,if not for us! may be for our next global generation if we dont accelerate our efforts.
DEVIDED,WE FALL.

Posted on Mon Sep 27, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@O.C ref :alpha1
Dear O.C,First I apologise for not being able to to your comments,Refeereing to ur first comment,why Pakistan need rest of the world to solve its problems?i would put it other way..i think rest of the world including Pakistan seek U.S support to solve and fix their problems one way or the other,leaving the exceptions behind.I think its a very positive sign when people from eastern europe,Moslim world,South east Asia,Southth(Pakistan) and many other moslim and other countries from different corners of the world started believing that U.S is a Global president and have positive sincere intentions to fix global problems.Somehow world has started to accept U.S as good global leader/President who have willingness for better world with peace,harmony,love,green,wisdom,vision,and reform of a comman man in many terms including education , health,justice etc.U.S itself is the biggest financial contributor to U.N for development of global public which reflects its ethical humane and desire to be a global king/president..Yes world too needs a good Global leader.If we lill back to recent history,there were 2 superpowers,USSR and USA and world was devided,some countries were USSR allies including china,india ,Iraq and some were allies of U.S.A like Pakistan,S.A ,Israel and many Moslim countries etc..Declaration of the New World Order,Starwars Programe led by U.S was the first step towards Unipolarization of the globe & all U.S allies supported the cause,Pakistan,As touching borders with Afganistan had to play front line role and the call for Jihad was given when many moslim countries joined in..even the subject of "Jihad" was placed in school carriculam books on recoomendation of a canadian comany,backed by U.S.World became Unipolar..U.S became single superpower of the world after joint efforts of its allies in breaking down USSR.But at that time ,nothing was planned to fight back the back fall of breaking down such a powerful superpower which led to formation of many strange forms of Mafias../continued

Posted on Mon Sep 27, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
Hillary Clinton stated that there was a growing insurgency in Mexico. I would go one step further and state that there is a growing insurgency in America. When the government allows the destruction of its educational system, heath legal system,unbridled immigration it opens up and softens the country for insurgent and extremist ideologies. When citizens feel persecuted and see their rights being systematically destroyed, they start to consider other alternatives. In the governments desire to collapse the American economy in order to usher in a globalized world, they have laid the groundwork for a rising insurgency. Strong families,communities and eduction=strong nations otherwise its just a chaotic mumbo jumbo of stupidity and the American people feel it. Brazil and Mexico are at war. Where will this insurgency likely spread to?

Posted on Sun Sep 12, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
America's intelligence problem is related to vested interests because people are placed in positions of power and authority that shouldn't be there. For example, they are a friend of a friend, a capo in the same mafia. Rather than hiring the right person or most effective person for the right job, they hire the incompetent so the organization snowballs into redundancy, confusion and oblivion. It's definitely an intelligence problem.

Posted on Sun Sep 12, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
Why does Pakistan need the rest of the world to solve its problem? You have a nation of brilliant minds yet the Pakistani people allow such corruption to continue that is destroying their country. If Pakistani's could rally around a very strong, honest leader, you could solve all of your water, medical, educational and civic problems. You don't need the Mafia to control Pakistan, you need the clear and uncorruptible vision of the Pakistani people. There is no reason why a nation of intelligent people should put up with such low standards. We have different problems in the USA. Our nation is already built but it is declining for many of the same reasons. In America, we have an intelligence problem which is a harder thing to solve so you have an advantage over us in that regard.

Posted on Sun Sep 12, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric .Its a BBC news about burning of Koran on 9/11..i dont think so it should happen because it will further apart Moslims and cristians and fragmantise the world and people.Nothing could be fixed and obama's efforts to fix things will go astray.further its too cheap to insult each others faiths.Point to think is that why BBC is Publishing such type of news in medea..do they want moslims and Americans to enter into crossade type of war that can weaken both U.S & moslim world instead of being united and become bigger power.If America and Muslim world fight with each other,which country will grow and can become next super power or global leader?..Think-Think-Think..u ll get the answer.

Posted on Sun Sep 12, 2010

Aqeel writes:

@O.C,true O.C,it makes sense to me that two mafia's are fighting with each other but during this transition phase of globalization,clashes of civilizations,cultures,traditions,religions,faiths is occuring which is a complicated situation for our planet and its public.this must be resolved with intelligent approach and tolerance.when mulple forms of clashes occur,yes all Mafia's take advantage out of such situations.Sometimes,i dont understand that globalization in intigration,unity of people or further divisions.lets see how Obama fixes things despite of all challenges.

Posted on Sun Sep 12, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

To the folks at INR @ State,

News Item;

"A small US church says it will defy international condemnation and go ahead with plans to burn copies of the Koran on the 9/11 anniversary.

The top US commander in Afghanistan warned troops' lives would be in danger if the Dove World Outreach Center in Florida went through with the plan."

-BBC NEWS

Well this is just about as stupid as it gets.

I suppose if they want to be "doves", burning books is about as far away from that mindset as a hypocrite can possibly get.

I thought we outlawed book burning in this country long ago.

Along with burning crosses in people's yards and other "hate crimes".

Now All it takes is for the dept of State to make a determination that this activity represents a carbon copy of the terrorist mind we face by IED in Iraq and Afghanistan, designed to represent a threat to the peace we seek, then do me a favor please and help the FBI handle this better than they did Waco.

The world must think nuts grow on trees here at this point along with "frootloops", and we don't need to feed the chipmunks LSD.

You don't want folks tripping out on this, in other words.

So put a stop to it. Now.

Please?

Thank you.

EJ

Posted on Tue Sep 07, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Aqeel, well there's psycological problems and mental disorders to consider. Terrorism is definately the end product of a disturbed mind, for sure. But I'm not a medical professional.

It would be an intersting discussion though if the American Medical association would host a global debate on this, you might be right for all I know.

One way or another, the condition is treatable, but the cure won't save the terminally ill, just the rest of us.

---

OC, I'm curious...where did you get your education in American history?

Seriously...you've been sadly misinformed if you believe everything you think.

What about your freedom do you not appreciate?

Posted on Mon Sep 06, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Eric
i understand what did you mean dear Eric,but the thought of vitamin deficiency gave me an idea that manythings including terrorism can be taken as real deasease and definitely diet must have some effects on thought process,perception and reaction that can be change by altering body electrolytes and cns acting medicines to change moods.. so it can be treated/overcome with the help of this scientific approach by making changes in food/grain dna so that people can be calm and live with good and elevated mood...just a crazy thought.. :) but its possible.

Posted on Mon Sep 06, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Eric,
I guess your vitamin deficiency theory explains why America's been at war with the rest of the world since our birth.

Posted on Sat Sep 04, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

It's a lack of empathy Aqeel, I didn't use "vitamin deficiancy" in the litteral sense to describe the lack, but as a deficiancy of an essential ingrediant to living well and correctly with one's fellow humans on this planet.

Just as good diet, education, and peace is.

Posted on Sat Sep 04, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
Terrorism occurs when governments are corrupt. The problem is their solution to corruption is even more corruption. It's basically two Mafias fighting each other. Similiar to what we have in the USA.

Posted on Fri Sep 03, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel,
On education we both agree. Pakistan should have been investing in excellent education programs for all Pakistani's. When you truly educate, not inculcate students, they will make positive choices for their future which usually ensures political stability. It's in the absence of a strong educational program when students are easily swayed towards one ideology or another. If anything, schools should produce strong global,political thinkers who can carve out a direction for their country.

Posted on Fri Sep 03, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@Victoria in Arizona,
Victoria,ever thought why all the prophets,mozes,jesus,mohammamad etc wqere born/sent in only one part of world?perphaps population of that part @ that time crossed all the limitations and boundaries even beyond humanity.people were under dark shadow of extreme illitracy ,humans were almost savages and there was immense and urgent need of education,preachings.All the prophets preached of "GOOD".Whatever,either nature brought the revolt in their minds agaist barbarionsim,berbarism,killing of innocents,inhumnity and all other evils of society or GOD sent them with his messege of GOOD..but they tried to deliver "GOOD" to people,the law,the justice,humane,concept of empathy,love ..they all preached GOOD and launch campainns in their own ways.But people started following figures,not their preaching and we are still doing that..we got devided instead of getting united ,we remember prophets but not their preachings..preachings of absolute GOOD,the love.May be firon's agents were among us even @ that time and deviated us from following their messeges and preachings/teachings but fighting over who follows whome as a leader?Oh damn,we humans were again trapped ..we started thinking that those following moses are enemy to those who follow mohammad and/or vice versa.Traitors of humanity worked smartly to project little differences in the way of preachings of scholars/prophets to make us fight with each other again over issues which were not core messeges of all the religions.OMG,we again started fighting with each other over issues of no importance ..messengers adopted different ways to educate us as lay people.We forgot the key element of their preachings.."HUMANITY" .If we follow humanity,we follow all the religions.No hiuman can be an enemy to another human..but yes we must not forget that evil lives p[arallel to "good" within us but good in us must dominate over our evil.

Posted on Fri Sep 03, 2010

Aqeel K. in Pakistan writes:

@Eric,
E.J,I like like and agree to this concept that terrorism is vitamin deficiency,..or may be some sort of chemical imbalance in brain and body.To a large extend,terrorism can be minimised or overcome by inducing antidode in grain's/vegetable/fruits /food DNA...thats one way too to handle it.
AK

Posted on Fri Sep 03, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

@OysterCracker,
True O.C I agree with what you are saying,but i would say that everytime,everything,everywhere theres a Problem but problem once identified correctly is itself its 50% solution,resolving the problem is rest of the 50%.If interfaith miarriages can play positive role in rebinding the fragments of global society,it must be addressed,projected and promoted.Emergence of religions and faiths should come as "case study" in books of political sciences and educating kids and adults in this way can be useful.changes should be made in carriculums over the globe for next tomorrow that may unite people even over the boundaries of religions.Creating awareness and educating adults and children can help..over time.Further ,what all faiths have in common is "GOOD".No single religion preaches to kill,murder,rape,theft or any form of "Evil".Religions are just different pathways going to same destination with little variations.. I would add a sort of quote here [A Blind man Asked a Wise man..,could anything be there worse than losing your eyes?..Wise man Replied:Yes,losing your "Vision"] .So all what seems to be needed is educating for better next generation.

Posted on Fri Sep 03, 2010

O.C. in the U.S.A. writes:

@Aqueel From Pakistan,
The problem with people marrying outside of their faith is that usually once children are born, one or the other parent becomes more religious and wants to pass on their faith. One Jewish father told his child that the xmas tree in their living room was a Hannukah bush. That's a clever name for a Christmas tree.

Posted on Fri Aug 20, 2010

Aqeel K. in Pakistan writes:

I think,inter-religion marriages among men and women are important and would be beneficial for globalization process,judism,cristians,muslims...there are ways between lines in all religions which are by the book.

Posted on Fri Aug 20, 2010

Aqeel in Pakistan writes:

Moslim is 2 largest community population after cristianity so it has its own importance..either it has to be devided into fragments or mobilized towards towards gloabal goals.Terrorism is just the lable tagged on the foreheads for terrorists u find in every country,every community,but terrorist has no religion,no nationality,no family..they have their own world.I think God father from sissly will second it too.they work for money,not for cause.

Posted on Sun Aug 01, 2010

Ismail in the U.S.A. writes:

It is clear that the U.S government is becoming more and more involved with muslims all over the world. Why? not clear?. May be because they somehow believe that Muslims are terrorists and intend to hurt Americans. As a Muslim who lived in America for over 15 years I have to say that Islam preaches peace and forbids shedding the blood of innocent animals let alone human beings. Even in Legitimate wars, the PROPHET Muhammad peace be upon him forbade the killing of women, civillians, and children. He ordered his companions not to harm even trees. He told them to fight those who had driven them out of their homes. If there is a fool out there committing acts of violence in the name of Islam, then that has nothing to do with Islam. Just like acts of violence committed by Christians have nothing to do with Christianity. I invite all Americans to read about Islam to know for themseleves.
PEACE!

Posted on Wed Jul 28, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@ Aqeel K.

If you look down the page here aways in the comments you'll find an old text that may help illuminate the question you asked.

I have tried to define this thing called terrorism simply as a "vitamin deficiancy."

A lack of empathy.

A contagious condition spread by acts of terror.

Kind of takes all the religion and politics out of the equasion, and less confusion and conflict thereby I believe in reaching a common understanding.

Anyway...it is what it is and maybe it'll help.

Best,

EJ

Posted on Sat Jul 24, 2010

Aqeel K. in Pakistan writes:

Mahatama Gadhi's wise words :

I cannot teach you violence, as I do not myself believe in it. I can only teach you not to bow your heads before any one even at the cost of your life.
Mahatma Gandhi

Posted on Sat Jul 24, 2010

Dear Ms.Pandith,

My name is Ahmed Nasir Yousuf from Srinagar, Kashmir. I am a medical student and a citizen of India. The US is the leader of innovation and technology and a beacon of democracy and human rights.... See more
It has been my dream since I joined medical school to be trained under the best system in the world. For that reason I did my United States Medical Licensing Exam and scored a 99 in all Steps.
I applied for a J-1 visa for residency training in internal medicine in The Brooklyn hospital Center in New York. I chose your city because I always wanted to be judged by the quality of my work and not by my racial or ethnic background.

My passport H8455548 is with the US embassy since my interview 5th April 2010. My case 2010095-788-1 is still pending as per their website. I have a valid B1/B2 visa in my old passport A9295324 and a verification was done when that visa was issued last year.
So I am surprised why my verification is taking so long now when a verification was already conducted last year? I struggled to get an Internal Medicine Residency Position in The Brooklyn Hospital Center.

I gave my life's blood to pursue this specialty in the United States. I am at risk of losing an opportunity for further studies in the US and three years of hard work if I do not get my visa. I don't know whom to ask for help. I am writing this email as a last resort begging you to help me. Please have pity on this hapless person.

Thank you Madam.

Posted on Thu Jul 22, 2010

Aqeel K. in Pakistan writes:

Dear pals,First of all i would like to know that what are the factors that turn a Human into a terrorist.Is this innatism or consequences of series of external factors that they are subverted or any psycological desease of society.How and where did it come from?Think and analyse!! Some years back,sissly which is kicking the ball of italy was considered as den of Great Mafism and Terrorism.Terrorist ,in my opinion,has no religion but its an outcome of unappropriate global policies.terrorist have no relationships,no brothers,no sisters,no kids,no religion,no code of life etc..perhaps they have given up out of some sort of suppressions and got subverted.they are in every nation,every religion,kkk is on example of extremism.It is not wise to link terrrorists with any religion or nation,their Godfather's God might be money only.

Posted on Tue Jul 20, 2010

Abdul Q. in Afghanistan writes:

hello
wish you be fine and doing well
one of the essentialy point that i want to mention that,s how to give happiness and peaceful life to all the human community.

i wish that we all find the way to act on the above speach.

Posted on Tue Jul 20, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

Something for everyone-food for thought perhaps;

Call it a "dad thing" and a "mom thing"....

Diplospeak for "Please don't do that!"

What to do when your friend beats his wife?

Be "Concerned." and pull him off her.

Every time it hits the fan Israel has stopped when the international community has asked it to.

Why? Because there is empathy present and accounted for. Terrorists are terrorists for the lack of it. So shine a light on it.

When government and religion become one and the same, this corrupts both completely and inevitably ...Charlemane no differently and the man who claims to have the only interpretation of truth and law becomes devoid of the truth and without dicipline. Empty, and without soul.

An organ grinder's monkey on the loose-nuke,in today's world.

There's a reason I've spent the better part of a week helping to define one word, calling all to debate on the matter.

The weak link in the chain become the strongest when meanings become plainly self evident.

Castles made of sand don't last long on a beach.The tidal forces of history inevitably take them...out to sea. Obliterated from the minds of men.

I wish to recall a little history, the duality of the universe born from the oneness of the stuff of stars.

Grinding dicipline, exaustive investigation.

To go where no one dares.

Into the minds of madmen and return whole to deliver these findings to the sane.

Another fine "lead-in" I suppose,

"Right here, Right now."

We can do this, so long as we remember our joy. They carry a good soul onward.

Speed of thought helms-man, Engage!

The good ship humanity got places to go.

Of ancient words from an old man's last speach given, honored to do so for the sake of peace.

Well to head them, repeat them, and anticipate miracles.

A wise President would do well to quote them on to the whole world in my opinion, as to lead the heard to greener pastures.

For that my friends becomes "Cowboy Diplomacy".

5000 character limits break the cadence, It is in the speaking, self-evident truth becomes manifest.

For words on the page are two-dimentional.

Echos from the past, inlayed in stone.

Concrete philosophy for a dysfunctional world.

Take the rhythm road.

I'm a lucky man, I know my purpose in being.

From a member of the original nuclear family, I have passed the wisdom of ages onto your's...for who then would question the motive?

You've never met me, but my family's role in history changed everything.

Friendly fellow who's team brought a child into being that lights cities, and threatens the species.

To end war forevermore, by building a bomb that cannot be used and remain civilized.

Who then would believe me?

I am simply a terrorist's worst nightmare, at your service.

Posted on Thu Jul 15, 2010

Lou A. in the U.S.A. writes:

America condones the Genocide in Palestine.

Israeli bulldozers destroyed six buildings, including at least three homes, in contested east Jerusalem on Tuesday, resuming the demolition of Palestinian property after a halt aimed at encouraging peace talks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu would not comment.

In Washington, U.S. State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said the U.S. is "concerned" about the demolitions and disagrees with some aspects of Israeli policy.

"We continue to oppose and will make clear to the government of Israel that we oppose unilateral actions that prejudge negotiations," he said.

"CONCERNED"... America the true peace broker... Wait while I barf.

Posted on Wed Jul 14, 2010

Mandour H. in Egypt writes:

Violence (1)

violence every where..where should i go
it's a lnguage that i can't talk..
what can i do?
violence in the streets..at homes..at schools
it has a hidden trigger that's always pulled
violence ..in fact..is a stupid culture..
tracing childern smiles..colors
trees..love songe..
and every happy thought that it can capture
Peace..on the other hand..
looks more like a dream
hidden in the shade..always afraid
it can pull no trigger..
always ,,disfigured
it's always beaten in stupid crazy wars
or a mean politacal smile ....
deceiving us,...the fools
it's always kept in hold..
behind a cold dark wall
while birds..rivers..trees..
children and flowers...
can do nothong..nothing at all..
except....wathing themselves.....
while so slowly.. they die...they fall.
By cambridge_train
2006( cambridge_train (All rights reserved)

(Knocking (Violence 2)

Stop knocking on my head..
Stop feeding on my ears..
Sadness can still cry ?
But eyes can shed no tears..
Why still knocking on my head?
Violence is the lonely song you can play..
Stop knocking
What a play!!!....
Stop knocking
Children need a pray
Will you stop..??..
Rivers and seas need drops of rain
Why the mountains are not as high ..as they used to be..?
Why cant a forest survive ..
Why can't it it live in an ever green tree??
Why me?..Why me
Now stop..just stop..
No way..you won't stop..
(me) surrender ..
Let's all celebrate ..come on..
All my dear fellows in humanity..
It's the time to hide..
Let's all join the giving up party
Long live knocking
Long live violence
Long live war
Don't stop knocking
Now take your humanity along with the trees
Take your songs and feelings!!!!
Mountains..birds and seas
Pack them all together
Make one big drum
So the knocking can knock louder
Let the knocking enjoy knocking..
keep knocking
On our heads and rhymes
Keep on knocking ..
Don't be shy..don't feel guilt
Cause We..Us!!!!
The Deaf..The Dumb..
We are the criminals!!!
We are the Crime

By cambridge_train

2007( cambridge_train (All rights reserved)

A background scene
(Violence3.Mental V)

The scene in the background is flat
There are trees .. streets .. houses..and footprints
There are no birds .. no singing rains .. no homes
There are no people..there are no ringing bells
too many things an eye can catch
but can't see a thing
the scene has a standstill shadow
well hidden and fixed
the scene has circles
the circles are so smooth
sharpened like a knife..
that cuts coincidentally ..
events into random tracks
overlapped tracks
typing on the air..
the exact translation of the word .. LIFE
are we still here?
shall we ever care?
the scene now has vanished ....
has flown away ..
the background still there..
empty and cold..
the story was told..
and i have to go..
or do i have to hide..into the background
By cambridge_train

2007 cambridge_train (All rights reserved)

Posted on Wed Jul 14, 2010

Mandour H. in Egypt writes:

2nd : for Eric in New Mexico
1) you wrote
"A terrorist is simply defined by the nature of his actions and methodology".
I do agree , and i havn.t said anything different..for instance ..what happened in September the 11th is 100% Terrorist act ..by nature and methodology..and CAN NEVER BE JUSTIFIED OR ACCEPTED BY ANY HUMANS..and so the attacks in London and any other attacks against civilians anywhere on our planet including Israel.. but how can we describe Jenin Massacre (April 1–11, 2002)? Isn't that a State terrorism?providing that I don't accept Any act of violence or terrorism directed against civilians at any place in the world including Israel.
2) you wrote
"Therefore to suggest we issue some form of blanket condemnation of Islam or are pre-disposed to think of all Muslims as terrorists is not only flat wrong, but supports those who abuse your faith to justify their acts and crimes against humanity."
Well..when I used the term "predefined accusations" ..it was based on number of conferences held inside and outside Egypt..attended by people from different countries ,different cultures…the questions submitted by many of them were ranging from : "why do (muslim people) Adopt the wrong policies such as suicide bombings , " Why do (the Arabs) want to slaughter the Americans ? ..or How to accept (children and young Muslims) blow themselves up to kill innocent, Americans and Europeans civilians?... so i used the term (predefined accusations).
finally
I would like to thank you very much for being fair and objective in your comments, and for posting the whole text "of The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep, c. 2200 BCE" ,
regards
Mandour

Posted on Wed Jul 14, 2010

Mandour H. in Egypt writes:

@EricJ in New Mexico and Victoria in Arizona (1) :

1)first :for Victoria..
It might have been better to put a title for my comment .. the concerns of ordinary people ...
I should have put this address to make clear that I belong to ordinary people ..i don't Might have been better to put a title for my comment .. the concerns of ordinary people should have put this address to make clear I belong to ordinary people all over the planet mother .. I do not adopt any political agenda .. but I adopt the concerns and interests of ordinary people these concerns are many .. But most important of all for me is the peace, this is the dream of ordinary people all over the world .. I mean here FAIR PEACE. not the one imposed by a strong side on a weaker one .. and i'm alsoI'm against all kinds of violence .. phical and mental violence>>starting with violence at homes, schools, streets...recahing the biggest sin..the war, so Victoria ..i've read your comments..and allow me to tell you this :

1) I am against any attacks against civilians .. even in case of wars .. and I do not accept any justifications for these criminal acts .. Of course, the worst of the worst attacks on at all was the eleventh of September .. Any other attacks anywhere in the world .. including any attacks against Israeli civilians..but in your opinion .... what would you call the Jenin massacre? And tens of other massacres …?..?.....!!!!!!!!!!!you name it………. what would you call the siege of Gaza ? ..?.....!!!!!!!!!!!you name it……….. what would you call Demolished thousands of homes of civilians over the past years .. and leave them homeless in the open ..?.....!!!!!!!!!!!you name it..
2) Is the separation wall being built by Israel in Palestine is to help achieving peace? …
3) Don't you notice that whenever the peace talks came close to begin, Israel would begin a new provocative act causing embarrassment to her friends? And peace talks stopped!!!!.
Last time, resumption of construction of settlements and before the siege of Gaza, and now dozens of houses demolished in Jerusalem .. In all these cases, stop the peace talks suspended. Do you think that these actions show just how keen Israel to peace? .. Or destruction of Peace?
4) Have you heared of these groups?.. :
International Solidarity Movement
Anarchists against the Wall
Coalition of Women for Peace
Ta’ayush
Peace Now
Gush Shalom
My friend..let's all pray for fair and untermed peace for the sake of our children
Mandour

Posted on Wed Jul 14, 2010

Victoria in Arizona writes:

@Eric, New Mexico

You are right, poor choice of word on my part. What I was trying to say and I think you sorted it out. There terrorists/Jihadist are using the Koran, Sharia law and the Hadith to justify (better choice??) their actions. According to the Koran, and you probably know that all non-Moslems and especially Moslem apostates are the enemy. And that is why the Molsem communities are keeping very silent. It has all happened before in the 8th Century under Pepin the Short father of Charlegmane the Great. Luckily Charles Martell put an end to the Islamization of Europe. Don't know if you know that part of history, I assume you do. So what can the West do to in the 21 Century to fight these fanatics who seem to grow under every bush and leaf? We do not have a Charles Martell. what can the West do other than keep shoring up defenses?

Posted on Tue Jul 13, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Victoria,

RE:

"There are no Muslim terrorists, for the majority of people in this country as well as its government recognize that while some terrorists in the world use Islam as a cloak and excuse to justify their actions, They are not practicing Islam through their actions."

It is still not clear to my why you would wish me to alter my use of the word "cloak" in the above context.

If one is seeking to hide the true nature of one's actions by trying to disguise it as legitimate, one indeed "cloaks" themselves in the process, no?

Posted on Tue Jul 13, 2010

Victoria in Arizona writes:

@Mandour, Are you aware of the following:

"'DECLARE GAZA A PART OF EGYPT'
by Maayana Miskin

The best way to solve the problem of terrorism in Gaza is to move backward, not forward, says Deputy Minister Ayoub Kara, Druze member of the Likud party.
“What we need to do is declare that Gaza is a part of Egypt," Kara told Arutz Sheva's Hebrew news service in an interview Sunday. "That'a a unilateral move that makes sense. They talk about going back to the way things were in 1967 – so we should keep in mind that back then there was no Palestinian people and Gaza was a part of Egypt, and Judea and Samaria a part of Jordan."
The problem with putting Gaza under the control of the Palestinian Authority is that the PA lacks true control, Kara said. “There is no leadership in the PA, there is nobody prepared to rule. We're playing pretend,” he declared.
When asked why Egypt would agree to return to authority in Gaza, Kara explained that the change in leadership would benefit Egypt as well as Israel. Egypt understands that Iran is developing a foothold in Gaza, and Egypt wants to weaken Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood.
"[Gaza] is becoming a terrorist power taking orders from Iran. That's a danger to Egypt as well,” Kara stated.
He also spoke about negotiations between Israel and the Palestinian Authority. Kara expressed frustration with the “masochistic” construction freeze in Judea and Samaria, and stated that he is planning to quit his post if the government does not allow construction to resume in September.
Kara also strongly opposed the 2005 Disengagement. He refused to defect to the breakaway Kadima party, preferring to stay in internal opposition with Likud.
If the freeze had a chance of leading to peace, the MK said, he might feel differently. However, he continued, the freeze is more likely to encourage terrorism."

Posted on Mon Jul 12, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Virginia,

The Koran, as any document throughout history is, including what folks consider to be those of a supreme being's passed onto man, is subject to mankind's inability to understand them in a monolithic way.

Thus they are subject to one's individual interpretation.

It is only mankind's arrogence which allows an individual to lay claim to his interpretation as the only acceptable one, for all other individuals, denying their right to interpret such wisdom.

There is an old Buddhist line of text which goes like this," If you meet Buddha on the road to enlightenment, kill him."

Because if you do, the apparition is only a reflection of one's self, and such illusions must be overcome in order to obtain enlightenment.

Anyone who has witnessed the birth of one's child can tell you that yes indeed you create your own reality, the question is what do we wish to create for ourselves as reality on this planet, now and for our children's, and their children's future?
Not just in this country, but the world as a whole, as an international vision.

Inherently, change is viewed with suspicion, as a threat to culture and ways of tradition and ethical belief systems. As it applies to developing countries in this nuclear age, the post-cold war aftermath presents a vast paradox that present no easy solutions, and has culminated in the reality of the war on terrorism as it exists today.

This then is the subject of of the dialoge we must seek to create among the family of man, in order to obtain clarity and an enlightened, peaceful coexistance.

When I consider the difference (by definition) between a terrorist and a freedom fighter, The targeting of civilians, and the methods employed may serve. The philosophy behind our revolution, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence, was born from resistance to oppression with "live free, or die." being at the core of it. As Hamid Karzai once intimated, this is the Afghan jihad, the true jihad, to be free to live in correctness with one another. That jihad lies in one's heart, the struggle to live a correct life, in the eyes of the Creator of all.

The commonality of the basic truths behind all the major religions of the world, is apparent to me.

The text I posted reflects this fact.

Who then could be so arrogant to think that they were the only ones chosen by God to have a corner on the truth?

That's why even Yassar Arafat told bin laden publicly he does not in any way represent the Palestinian people, nor has any right to lay claim to defending their interests.

Even so, the methodology he employed in his leadership of them involved that which can be best defined as terrorism in its manifestation even while claiming to be fighting for their freedom from occupation.

And so, we must not be shy about calling it what it is after having defined it properly.

It is precicely because Iranians and others (including Muslims) round the globe protest such stonings that the Iranian government hesitates to be further condemned by carrying them out.

Whenever the natural social dynamic of the old giving way to the new becomes manifest through ideas or practices, the old throw a monkey-wrench at progress by trying to start up the "way-back machine" and throw the evolution of mindsets into reverse.

Mankind has been seeking teachers and God's to change a status quo that was unacceptable for as long as we've been sentient as a species, and Mohammed (PBOH) was no different in that respect from any other that came in the form of a man or woman.

Posted on Mon Jul 12, 2010

Victoria in Arizona writes:

@EricJ in New Mexico and Mandour

I whole heartidly agree with EJ from New Mexico and his comments about terrorists. Unforuntately the "popular" (bad choice of word so please think of a better word) they cloak themselves under the canopy of Islam. Conveient but mistaken move for the terrorists and even worst for the law abiding peaceful Muslims. That said it is also unfortunate that in many Mosques the Immams do not preach peaceful co-existence.

It does not help matters when a young widow is to be executed for whatever reason by stoning her to death after receiving and suviving 99 lashes. The world is outranged but where are the Muslem communities? They are silent instead of voicing their communal disgust.

Egypt has contributed monumentally to the development of Western civilization. Western civiliation is still digging out Egypt's treasures. Egypt should stand head and shouder in front of the perpetrators and shout their dismay. Just because a man shouted 1400 years ago to erase the infidels, apostate and condem people, especially women to death for whatever reason and avenge Islam - that doesn't make it reasonable in the 21st century. No wonder the terrorists, Jihadists and Talbiban can cloak themselves into the words of something that was deemed correct and reasonable 1400 years ago.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep, c. 2200 BCE

Precepts of the prefect, the lord Ptah-hotep,
under the Majesty of the King of the South and North, Assa, living eternally forever.
The prefect, the feudal lord Ptah-hotep, says: O Ptah with the two crocodiles, my lord, the progress of age changes into senility. Decay falls upon man and decline takes the place of youth. A vexation weighs upon him every day; sight fails, the ear becomes deaf; his strength dissolves without
ceasing. The mouth is silent, speech fails him; the mind decays, remembering not the day before. The whole body suffers. That which is good becomes evil; taste completely disappears. Old age makes a man altogether miserable; the nose is stopped up, breathing no more from exhaustion. Standing or sitting
there is here a condition of . . . Who will cause me to have authority to speak, that I may declare to him the words of those who have heard the counsels of former days? And the counsels heard of the gods, who will give
me authority to declare them? Cause that it be so and that evil be removed from those that are enlightened; send the double . . . The majesty of this god says: Instruct him in the sayings of former days. It is this which
constitutes the merit of the children of the great. All that which makes the soul equal penetrates him who hears it, and that which it says produces no satiety.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont)

Beginning of the arrangement of the good sayings, spoken by the noble lord, the divine father, beloved of Ptah, the son of the king, the first-born of his race, the prefect and feudal lord Ptah-hotep, so as to instruct the
ignorant in the knowledge of the arguments of the good sayings. It is profitable for him who hears them, it is a loss to him who shall transgress them. He says to his son:
Be not arrogant because of that which you know; deal with the ignorant as with the learned; for the barriers of art are not closed, no artist being in possession of the perfection to which he should aspire. But good words are more difficult to find than the emerald, for it is by slaves that that is
discovered among the rocks of pegmatite.
If you find a disputant while he is hot, and if he is superior to you in ability, lower the hands, bend the back, do not get into a passion with him.
As he will not let you destroy his words, it is utterly wrong to interrupt him; that proclaims that you are incapable of keeping yourself calm, when you are contradicted. If then you have to do with a disputant while he is hot, imitate one who does not stir. You have the advantage over him if you keep silence when he is uttering evil words. "The better of the two is he who is impassive," say the bystanders, and you are right in the opinion of the great.
If you find a disputant while he is hot, do not despise him because you are not of the same opinion. Be not angry against him when he is wrong; away with such a thing. He fights against himself; require him not further to flatter your feelings. Do not amuse yourself with the spectacle which you
have before you; it is odious, it is mean, it is the part of a despicable soul so to do. As soon as you let yourself be moved by your feelings, combat this desire as a thing that is reproved by the great.
If you have, as leader, to decide on the conduct of a great number of men, seek the most perfect manner of doing so that your own conduct may be without reproach. Justice is
great, invariable, and assured; it has not been disturbed since the age of Ptah. To throw obstacles in the way of the laws is to open the way before violence. Shall that which is below gain the upper hand, if the unjust does not attain to the place of justice? Even he who says: I take for myself, of my own free-will; but says not: I take by virtue of my authority. The limitations of justice are invariable; such is the instruction which every man receives from his father.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

Inspire not men with fear, else Ptah will fight against you in the same manner. If any one asserts that he lives by such means, Ptah will take away the bread from his mouth; if any one asserts that he enriches himself thereby, Ptah says: I may take those riches to myself. If any one asserts that he beats others, Ptah will end by reducing him to impotence. Let no one inspire men with fear; this is the will of Ptah. Let one provide sustenance for them in the lap of peace; it will then be that they will freely give what has been torn from them by terror.
If you are among the persons seated at meat in the house of a greater man than yourself, take that which he gives you, bowing to the ground. Regard that which is placed before you, but point not at it; regard it not
frequently; he is a blameworthy person who departs from this rule. Speak not to the great man more than he requires, for one knows not what may be displeasing to him. Speak when he invites you and your worth will be pleasing. As for the great man who has plenty of means of existence, his conduct is as he himself wishes. He does that which pleases him; if he desires to repose, he realizes his intention. The great man stretching forth his hand does that to which other men do not attain. But as the means of
existence are under the will of Ptah, one can not rebel against it.
If you are one of those who bring the messages of one great man to another, conform yourself exactly to that wherewith he has charged you; perform for him the commission as he has enjoined you. Beware of altering in speaking the offensive words which one great person addresses to another; he who perverts the trustfulness of his way, in order to repeat only what produces pleasure in the words of every man, great or small, is a detestable person.
If you are a farmer, gather the crops in the field which the great Ptah has given you, do not boast in the house of your neighbors; it is better to make oneself dreaded by one's deeds. As for him who, master of his own way of acting, being all-powerful, seizes the goods of others like a crocodile in the midst even of watchment, his children are an object of malediction, of scorn, and of hatred on account of it, while his father is grievously
distressed, and as for the mother who has borne him, happy is another rather than herself. But a man becomes a god when he is chief of a tribe which has confidence in following him.
If you abase yourself in obeying a superior, your conduct is entirely good before Ptah. Knowing who you ought to obey and who you ought to command, do not lift up your heart against him. As you know that in him is authority, be respectful toward him as belonging to him. Wealth comes only at Ptah's own good-will, and his caprice only is the law; as for him who . . Ptah, who has
created his superiority, turns himself from him and he is overthrown.
Be active during the time of your existence, do no more than is commanded.
Do not spoil the time of your activity; he is a blameworthy person who makes a bad use of his moments. Do not lose the daily opportunity of increasing that which your house possesses. Activity produces riches, and riches do not endure when it slackens.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

If you are a wise man, bring up a son who shall be pleasing to Ptah. If he conforms his conduct to your way and occupies himself with your affairs as is right, do to him all the good you can; he is your son, a person attached to you whom your own self has begotten. Separate not your heart from him....
But if he conducts himself ill and transgresses your wish, if he rejects all
counsel, if his mouth goes according to the evil word, strike him on the mouth in return. Give orders without hesitation to those who do wrong, to him whose temper is turbulent; and he will not deviate from the straight
path, and there will be no obstacle to interrupt the way.
If you are employed in the larit, stand or sit rather than walk about. Lay down rules for yourself from the first: not to absent yourself even when weariness overtakes you. Keep an eye on him who enters announcing that what he asks is secret; what is entrusted to you is above appreciation, and all contrary argument is a matter to be rejected. He is a god who penetrates into a place where no relaxation of the rules is made for the privileged.
If you are with people who display for you an extreme affection, saying: "Aspiration of my heart, aspiration of my heart, where there is no remedy! That which is said in your heart, let it be realized by springing up spontaneously. Sovereign master, I give myself to your opinion. Your name is approved without speaking. Your body is full of vigor, your face is above your neighbors."
If then you are accustomed to this excess of flattery, and there be an obstacle to you in your desires, then your impulse is to obey
your passion. But he who . . . according to his caprice, his soul is . . ., his body is . . . While the man who is master of his soul is superior to those whom Ptah has loaded with his gifts; the man who obeys his passion is under the power of his wife.
Declare your line of conduct without reticence; give your opinion in the council of your lord; while there are people who turn back upon their own words when they speak, so as not to offend him who has put forward a
statement, and answer not in this fashion: "He is the great man who will recognize the error of another; and when he shall raise his voice to oppose the other about it he will keep silence after what I have said."
If you are a leader, setting forward your plans according to that which you decide, perform perfect actions which posterity may remember, without letting the words prevail with you which multiply flattery, which excite pride and produce vanity.
If you are a leader of peace, listen to the discourse of the petitioner. Be not abrupt with him; that would trouble him. Say not to him: "You have already recounted this." Indulgence will encourage him to accomplish the object of his coming. As for being abrupt with the complainant because he described what passed when the injury was done, instead of complaining of the injury itself let it not be! The way to obtain a clear explanation is to listen with kindness.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

If you desire to excite respect within the house you enter, for example the house of a superior, a friend, or any person of consideration, in short everywhere where you enter, keep yourself from making advances to a woman, for there is nothing good in so doing. There is no prudence in taking part
in it, and thousands of men destroy themselves in order to enjoy a moment,
brief as a dream, while they gain death, so as to know it. It is a villainous intention, that of a man who thus excites himself; if he goes on to carry it out, his mind abandons him. For as for him who is without repugnance for such an act, there is no good sense at all in him.
If you desire that your conduct should be good and preserved from all evil, keep yourself from every attack of bad humor. It is a fatal malady which leads to discord, and there is no longer any existence for him who gives way to it. For it introduces discord between fathers and mothers, as well as
between brothers and sisters; it causes the wife and the husband to hate each other; it contains all kinds of wickedness, it embodies all kinds of wrong. When a man has established his just equilibrium and walks in this path, there where he makes his dwelling, there is no room for bad humor.
Be not of an irritable temper as regards that which happens at your side; grumble not over your own affairs. Be not of an irritable temper in regard to your neighbors; better is a compliment to that which displeases than
rudeness. It is wrong to get into a passion with one's neighbors, to be no longer master of one's words. When there is only a little irritation, one creates for oneself an affliction for the time when one will again be cool.
If you are wise, look after your house; love your wife without alloy. Fill her stomach, clothe her back; these are the cares to be bestowed on her person. Caress her, fulfil her desires during the time of her existence; it is a kindness which does honor to its possessor. Be not brutal; tact will influence her better than violence; her . . . behold to what she aspires, at what she aims, what she regards. It is that which fixes her in your house; if you repel her, it is an abyss. Open your arms for her, respond to her arms; call her, display to her your love.
Treat your dependents well, in so far as it belongs to you to do so; and it belongs to those whom Ptah has favored. If any one fails in treating his dependents well it is said: "He is a person . . ." As we do not know the events which may happen tomorrow, he is a wise person by whom one is well treated. When there comes the necessity of showing zeal, it will then be the dependents themselves who say: "Come on, come on," if good treatment has not quitted the place; if it has quitted it, the dependents are defaulters.
Do not repeat any extravagance of language; do not listen to it; it is a thing which has escaped from a hasty mouth. If it is repeated, look, without hearing it, toward the earth; say nothing in regard to it. Cause him who speaks to you to know what is just, even him who provokes to injustice; cause that which is just to be done, cause it to triumph. As for that which is hateful according to the law, condemn it by unveiling it.
If you are a wise man, sitting in the council of your lord, direct your thought toward that which is wise. Be silent rather than scatter your words.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

When you speak, know that which can be brought against you. To speak in the council is an art, and speech is criticized more than any other labor; it is contradiction which puts it to the proof.
If you are powerful, respect knowledge and calmness of language. Command only to direct; to be absolute is to run into evil. Let not your heart be haughty, neither let it be mean. Do not let your orders remain unsaid and cause your answers to penetrate; but speak without heat, assume a serious
countenance. As for the vivacity of an ardent heart, temper it; the gentle man penetrates all obstacles. He who agitates himself all the day long has not a good moment; and he who amuses himself all the day long keeps not his fortune. Aim at fulness like pilots; once one is seated another works, and seeks to obey one's orders.
Disturb not a great man; weaken not the attention of him who is occupied. His care is to embrace his task, and he strips his person through the love which he puts into it. That transports men to Ptah, even the love for the work which they accomplish. Compose then your face even in trouble, that
peace may be with you, when agitation is with . . .These are the people who succeed in what they desire.
Teach others to render homage to a great man. If you gather the crop for him among men, cause it to return fully to its owner, at whose hands is your subsistence. But the gift of affection is worth more than the provisions with which your back is covered. For that which the great man receives from
you will enable your house to live, without speaking of the maintenance you enjoy, which you desire to preserve; it is thereby that he extends a beneficent hand, and that in your home good things are added to good things.
Let your love pass into the heart of those who love you; cause those about you to be loving and obedient.
If you are a son of the guardians deputed to watch over the public tranquillity, execute your commission without knowing its meaning, and speak with firmness. Substitute not for that which the instructor has said what you believe to be his intention; the great use words as it suits them. Your part is to transmit rather than to comment upon.
If you are annoyed at a thing, if you are tormented by someone who is acting within his right, get out of his sight, and remember him no more when he has ceased to address you.
If you have become great after having been little, if you have become rich after having been poor, when you are at the head of the city, know how not to take advantage of the fact that you have reached the first rank, harden not your heart because of your elevation; you are become only the administrator, the prefect, of the provisions which belong to Ptah. Put not behind you the neighbor who is like you; be unto him as a companion. Bend your back before your superior. You are attached to the palace of the king; your house is established in its fortune, and your profits are as is fitting. Yet a man is annoyed at having an authority above himself, and passes the period of life in being vexed thereat. Although that hurts not your . . . Do not plunder the house of your neighbors, seize not by force the goods which are beside you. Exclaim not then against that which you hear, and do not feel humiliated. It is necessary to reflect when one is hindered by it that the pressure of authority is felt also by one's neighbor.
Do not make . . . you know that there are obstacles to the water which comes to its hinder part, and that there is no trickling of that which is in its bosom. Let it not . . . after having corrupted his heart.
If you aim at polished manners, call not him whom you accost. Converse with him especially in such a way as not to annoy him. Enter on a discussion with him only after having left him time to saturate his mind with the subject of the conversation. If he lets his ignorance display itself, and if he gives
you all opportunity to disgrace him, treat him with courtesy rather; proceed not to drive him into a corner; do not . . . the word to him; answer not in a crushing manner; crush him not; worry him not; in order that in his turn he may not return to the subject, but depart to the profit of your conversation.
Let your countenance be cheerful during the time of your existence. When we see one departing from the storehouse who has entered in order to bring his share of provision, with his face contracted, it shows that his stomach is empty and that authority is offensive to him. Let not that happen to you; it is . . .

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

Know those who are faithful to you when you are in low estate. Your merit then is worth more than those who did you honor. His . . ., behold that which a man possesses completely. That is of more importance than his high rank; for this is a matter which passes from one to another. The merit of one's son is advantageous to the father, and that which he really is, is worth more than the remembrance of his father's rank.
Distinguish the superintendent who directs from the workman, for manual labor is little elevated; the inaction of the hands is honorable. If a man is not in the evil way, that which places him there is the want of
subordination to authority.
If you take a wife, do not . . . Let her be more contented than any of her fellow-citizens. She will be attached to you doubly, if her chain is pleasant. Do not repel her; grant that which pleases her; it is to her
contentment that she appreciates your work.
If you hear those things which I have said to you, your wisdom will be fully advanced. Although they are the means which are suitable for arriving at the maat, and it is that which makes them precious, their memory would recede from the mouth of men. But thanks to the beauty of their arrangement in
rhythm all their words will now be carried without alteration over this earth eternally. That will create a canvass to be embellished, whereof the great will speak, in order to instruct men in its sayings. After having
listened to them the pupil will become a master, even he who shall have properly listened to the sayings because he shall have heard them. Let him win success by placing himself in the first rank; that is for him a position perfect and durable, and he has nothing further to desire forever. By knowledge his path is assured, and he is made happy by it on the earth. The wise man is satiated by knowledge; he is a great man through his own merits.
His tongue is in accord with his mind; just are his lips when he speaks, his eyes when he gazes, his ears when he hears. The advantage of his son is to do that which is just without deceiving himself.
To attend therefore profits the son of him who has attended. To attend is the result of the fact that one has attended. A teachable auditor is formed, because I have attended. Good when he has attended, good when he speaks, he who has attended has profited, and it is profitable to attend to him who has
attended. To attend is worth more than anything else, for it produces love, the good thing that is twice good. The son who accepts the instruction of his father will grow old on that account. What Ptah loves is that one should attend; if one attends not, it is abhorrent to Ptah. The heart makes itself
its own master when it attends and when it does not attend; but if it attends, then his heart is a beneficent master to a man. In attending to instruction, a man loves what he attends to, and to do that which is prescribed is pleasant. When a son attends to his father, it is a twofold joy for both; when wise things are prescribed to him, the son is gentle toward his master. Attending to him who has attended when such things have
been prescribed to him, he engraves upon his heart that which is approved by his father; and the recollection of it is preserved in the mouth of the living who exist upon this earth.
When a son receives the instruction of his father there is no error in all his plans. Train your son to be a teachable man whose wisdom is agreeable to the great. Let him direct his mouth according to that which has been said to him; in the docility of a son is discovered his wisdom. His conduct is perfect while error carries away the unteachable. Tomorrow knowledge will support him, while the ignorant will be destroyed.
As for the man without experience who listens not, he effects nothing whatsoever. He sees knowledge in ignorance, profit in loss; he commits all kinds of error, always accordingly choosing the contrary of what is
praiseworthy. He lives on that which is mortal, in this fashion. His food is evil words, whereat he is filled with astonishment. That which the great know to be mortal he lives upon every day, flying from that which would be profitable to him, because of the multitude of errors which present themselves before him every day.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep (cont.)

A son who attends is like a follower of Horus; he is happy after having attended. He becomes great, he arrives at dignity, he gives the same lesson to his children. Let none innovate upon the precepts of his father; let the same precepts form his lessons to his children. "Verily," will his children say to him, "to accomplish what you say works marvels." Cause therefore that to flourish which is just, in order to nourish your children with it. If the teachers allow themselves to be led toward evil principles, verily the people who understand them not will speak accordingly, and that being said
to those who are docile they will act accordingly. Then all the world considers them as masters and they inspire confidence in the public; but their glory endures not so long as would please them. Take not away then a word from the ancient teaching, and add not one; put not one thing in place of another; beware of uncovering the rebellious ideas which arise in you; but teach according to the words of the wise. Attend if you wish to dwell in the mouth of those who shall attend to your words, when you have entered upon the office of master, that your words may be upon our lips . . . and that there may be a chair from which to deliver your arguments. Let your thoughts be abundant, but let your mouth be under restraint, and you shall argue with the great. Put yourself in unison with the ways of your master; cause him to say: "He is my son," so that those who shall hear it shall say "Praise be to her who has borne him to him!" Apply yourself while you speak; speak only of perfect things; and let the great who shall hear you say: "Twice good is that which issues from his mouth!" Do that which your master bids you. Twice good is the precept of his father, from whom he has issued, from his flesh. What he tells us, let it be fixed in our heart; to satisfy him greatly let us do for him more than he has
prescribed. Verily a good son is one of the gifts of Ptah, a son who does even better than he has been told to do. For his master he does what is satisfactory, putting himself with all his heart on the part of right. So I
shall bring it about that your body shall be healthful, that the Pharaoh shall be satisfied with you in all circumstances and that you shall obtain years of life without default. It has caused me on earth to obtain one hundred and ten years of life, along with the gift of the favor of the Pharoah among the first of those whom their works have ennobled, satisfying the Pharoah in a place of dignity. It is finished, from its beginning to its end, according to that which is found in writing.

Source:
From: Charles F. Horne, The Sacred Books and Early Literature of the East (New York: Parke, Austin, & Lipscomb, 1917), Vol. II: Egypt, pp. 62-78.
Scanned by: J. S. Arkenberg, Dept. of History, Cal. State Fullerton

This text is part of the Internet Ancient History Sourcebook. The Sourcebook is a collection of public domain and copy-permitted texts related to medieval and Byzantine history.
Unless otherwise indicated the specific electronic form of the document is copyright. Permission is granted for electronic copying, distribution in print form for educational purposes and personal use. No representation is made about texts which are linked off-site, although in most cases these are also public domain. If you do reduplicate the document, indicate the source.
No permission is granted for commercial use.

© Paul Halsall May 1998

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

The following question has now been answered;

"So I'd like to ask the Muslims here what they do with rabid dogs running amock in their neigborhood?"

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/10/AR2010071002235.html

BAGHDAD -- Teams of veterinarians and police shooters have killed about 58,000 stray dogs in and around the Iraqi capital over the past three months as part of a campaign to curb an increasing number of strays blamed for attacks on residents.

The Baghdad provincial government said in a statement released Saturday that 20 teams have been moving around the city and the outer districts daily looking for and putting down the dogs, either by poisoning or shooting. The operation, which was first announced in late 2008, only truly took off this April, after funds were allocated.

The surge in strays -- estimated by provincial officials to number about 1.25 million -- is linked to what officials say is an improvement in some elements of daily life in Baghdad, which has been struggling to return to normalcy after the 2003 U.S.-led invasion to topple Saddam Hussein.

Officials with the provincial veterinary directorate said that with open-air markets and bustling city life returning, the dogs are able to find more food and are having bigger litters.

Figures for the number of attacks by packs of stray dogs were not available Saturday, the last day of the weekend in Iraq.

But officials said resident complaints have increased steadily in tandem with the rise in the stray population. In the capital, dogs have attacked children, killing some.

Efforts since the campaign was announced in 2008 have met with limited success because of a lack of funding and follow-through. Baghdad is not thought to have any dog shelters.

The teams begin their work daily at 6 a.m. and coordinate with security forces -- ostensibly to ensure that they aren't mistaken for insurgents and that they don't draw retaliatory fire.

Provincial officials said that before the teams move into an area, residents are also warned to not pick up meat they find on the ground because it could be the poisoned food used to lure and kill the dogs.

Under Hussein's regime, stray dogs were routinely shot. But their numbers grew steadily after the invasion, when more serious security issues sidelined efforts to deal with the dogs.

-- Associated Press

Seems folks do it the exactly the same way we do it here in New Mexico.

You have four-legged varmits and two-legged varmits.

---BBC NEWS ITEM; news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/world/south_asia/10584283.stm

(excerpt)

The death toll in a double suicide bombing in a Pakistani tribal village on the border with Afghanistan has risen to more than 100, officials say.

Abdul Wadood, 19, had been sitting in a vehicle when the bombs exploded and suffered head and arm injuries.

"I only heard the deafening blast and lost consciousness," he said.

"I found myself on a hospital bed after opening my eyes. I think those who planned or carried out this attack are not humans."

(end excerpt)

I believe this young man knows what he's talking about.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Mandour in Egypt,

You wrote:

"3) To create a fair dialogue between the two cultures there shouldn't be any predefined accusation for Moslems or Arab..as if every Moslem is a potential terrorist..butting the Moslems in a defensive corner before even you start the dialogue could do a great harm to the peace precess., Terrorism has no HOME NOR RELIGION..it could be anywhere for different reasons..and we should all faceit
(mentally) and peacefully..not with Violence."

A terrorist is simply defined by the nature of his actions and methodology.

There are no Muslim terrorists, for the majority of people in this country as well as its government recognize that while some terrorists in the world use Islam as a cloak and excuse to justify their actions, They are not practicing Islam through their actions.

Therefore to suggest we issue some form of blanket condemnation of Islam or are pre-disposed to think of all Muslims as terrorists is not only flat wrong, but supports those who abuse your faith to justify their acts and crimes against humanity.

Terrorists come in all colors, but are not defined by the color of their skin.

Terrorists come in all political stripes, but are not defined by ideological means.

Or through religious values, for lack of knowing what that is in the first place.

One may define terrorism as "evil", for the total lack of empathy present in their mindset while commiting such acts.

And the fact that if there was even the smallest spark of empathy present, "evil" could not exist in the same mental space along side of it.

The taking of one's own life in order to murder the innoccent, and the deliberate targeting of ordinary people trying to go about their daily lives is the only criteria needed to define a terrorist as a terrorist...period.

It matters not why they do so or what so- called "justification" the terrorist claims to have.

I think it goes without saying that if there were peaceful means to deal with their actions and end the phenomena of terrorism, folks would have found one by now.

We can educate people, provide economic incentive, create a dialoge to a better understanding of the root of this common problem every society on this planet faces, and mitigate the conditions that feed their false justification of their acts, and build a greater appreciation for living life well in general terms.

But in the end, none of this would change the mindset of those irreconcilable to peaceful coexistance with the diversity of the human race, in all of its mirad belief structures, religious, political, or in any other form or combination of them.

One may say intolerance breeds intolerance, and I have no problem being intolerant of intolerance, for it is indeed unacceptable and incompatible with the notion of peace.

The reason some are not comfortable in using the word "terrorist" substituting it for "insurgent", "rebel" and other words is that as yet they have no proper undersanding of how to define what a terrorist is.

Until folks can, it will be impossible to address the root cause and end such activity.

Farah Pandith is perfectly welcome to have a debate with me on this very subject, right here, right now, or at a time of her choosing.

In no way would I support the notion that using the word "terrorist" and calling it what it is, represents some kind of "Zero-sum game."

Tell that to future generations not yet present that have as much right as the living to a world worth living in.

Terrorism has been a defined activity since The Precepts of Ptah-Hotep, (c. 2200 BCE) were written down.

Being from Egypt, I think you may take some pride in the historical record of your people's contribution to civilization, and the arrangement of "good sayings" that supported its development.

I will post the entire text in sections so you will understand exactly what I am referring to.

I liked the poem by the way, and all one has to do is find the door in the wall and step through it.

Best Regards,

EJ

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Victoria in Arizona writes:

@Mandour in Egypt

You are kidding, of course you are!

4) Reaching a FAIR and PEACEFULL solution in
Areas of political tension in the Middle East (For example, YOU must fulfill the promises given by Western governments for the Palestinians) will help a lot.

Abbas makes no accountability of all the aid already received. Hamas is building munition and rocket bases within the civil population in Gaza and.... while we are on the subject Hamas is sending their sickest and most life-threatened wounded to Israel for care and while there... the families receive housing and food courtesy Israel. Who is doing what to whom?

As if that weren't enough now Hamas is forbidding Gaza people to go to Israel to earn money, specifically one location. So now the poor Gaza people have no income .... Who is oppressing the Gaza population? And you are much closer to the situation than I am. For that reasoI say unto you gotta be kidding.

Posted on Sun Jul 11, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Saman,

(chuckle) I didn't mean to step inadvertantly into a debate about what to call the "Gulf", I was just trying to make sure folks didn't think I meant the Gulf of Mexico or something...

I don't really care what people call it as long as we don't have to go to war over it.

May I suggest we simply rename it, "The gulf of idiocy"?

Seems politicaly appropriate.

I'm not sure you should thank me for answering Suliman's question. The scenario has been the subject of Congressional study and hearings as to the effect on my own nation's population simply because the IRGC has been doing missile testing that mimics that scenario I outlined.

Folks are going to need all the humanitarian aid they can get afterwards because there won't be any refrigeration nor working vehicals to get food to market in the cities.

You won't be able to pump water, gas, no sewage treatment, and when all the infrastructure of a fairly modern society ceases to work, there's going to be pandemonium in the streets.

At least the people will be on a level playing field with the regime, and can do what they need to do to remove it, without our boots on the ground.

When folks realize that we could have done things a whole lot differently at the cost of many, many lives in Iran, and in saving millions of others by not allowing a single Iranian missile to be launched with a biological or nuclear payload, I think folks in the region will understand why there was no warning given, and the truly compassionate nature of the action taken.

And that includes the Iranian people, despite the hardship they would endure as a result. They can expect a lot of help from the 230 million others in the region their hardship has helped save.

That won't be a monolythic reaction, but I think a general one when the alternatives were properly assessed.

In a practical sense, it will remove the regime from power simply because their tools of government,- computers, communication, command and control of forces- will no longer function.

I suppose that means that we'll have to drop the Ayatollah a cupcake and a sat. phone with a note from the President that says "Call me. We can do this again tommorrow if you won't surrender unconditionally now, or take your poison."

And I should note here that even in extremis with no other viable option on the table left, we'd find it very hard indeed to go this rout, because the Iranian people are not our enemy and we don't wish to place hardship on top of the hardship you already face at the hands of the tyrants in charge there.

There's a real good op-ed in the Washington post today that that makes a lot of sense, and I agree fully with their assesment.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/07/08/AR2010070805070.html

What they are suggesting is the compliment to this following post I wrote the other day.

"Back to the topic of the week, I've already posted my recomendations for engaging civil society, and you can start with having an ongoing dialogue with the various Iranian/American groups here in the US with family inside Iran; who are trying their best to breath life into people's aspirations for freedom, without a crash-cart to render emergency assistance and few resources.

Now if you want that patient to be declared "D.O.A." just ignore the national asset in our midst.

And if you do, ultimately one has to decide whether the "pressure track" includes the elements of regime replacement therapy as the end result of the Iranian Gov.'s failure to comply with UN decisions.

What right do we have to proceed in this manner?

The same right future generations not yet present have to a world worth living in.

Sans terrorism. Keep that in mind as one proceeds to make it so."

Posted on Wed Jul 07, 2010

-endpost-

I think it is important to note that the Israeli PM remarks at the Council of Foreign Relations included reference to a conversation he had with our President specificly on the nature of the Iranian/hisbollah missile threat to the region, not just Israel, and what to do about it.

All this being theoretical, I hope they came up with a better solution than I have here.

But we ended WW2 without even testing the bomb dropped on Hiroshima and never having dropped one out of an aircraft before then. Nagasaki's bomb was the same type tested at white sands.

So I think it goes without saying that my government is prepared to take risks and proceed with only theory and probability to go on when trying to end or even prevent a war.

Best regards,

EJ

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Sam B. in Iran writes:

@Eric in New Mexico

Thank you dear Eric, emphasize in Arabian gulf, truly.

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Flavius in Virginia writes:

Man, I love ELP. ELP was MONSTER back in the 70's. Like, I would play "Tarkus" over and over again, until my ears would ring like the Liberty Bell. I think if we used ELP against bad guys, the bad guys wouldn't stand a chance. It would be... Brain Salad Surgery!

Now, if we couldn't get ELP back together again, we could always get Jeff Lynne to reform ELO. Whoa. It would be like, out of the blue, you know? Talk about your "Fire On High!" Sure would make a mess of all those telephone lines! I can't get it out of my head!

Do you think when they asked "don't bring me down Bruce" that they were talking about Springsteen? I don't know, man. It coulda been Bruce Wayne, or even Robert the Bruce. Jeff Lynne can get really obtuse with his lyrics because of his whole Beatles thing. The walrus was Paul, you know?

Some great ideas on this blog, man. Love it here! Peace!

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Mandour H. in Egypt writes:

Dear All,
I''m the Egyptian coordinator for a very promising and successful shared projects between the University and :
a) The British Council in Egypt ., it’s titled Al azhar English TRaining Center (AETC).
b)The Regional English Language Office ,U.S. Embassy in Egypt it's titled ELRC(English Language Resources Center).

and somehow i lived the two cultures, so allow me to put these few lines here about the West (not only U.S , and UK) Engagement with the (EAST) ..not only Muslim Communities ,and i do believe we all share the same dream..peace . :

1) Conferences With fancy titles like (Interfaith dialogue ) is the most coomon approach so far , ..but have they proved any real success toward achieving peace?
I strongly doubt it..cause i think the most important step to reach peace..real sustained , settled peace should come through NATURAL RELATIONSHIP between the people of the two cultures , by fixing the disfigured images for people
(ordinary people..not fat title holders) in the two communities ..and that can best be done by establishing UNTERMED economic and human projects by US , and Europe in the east (african and islamic world) , .. projects like ELRC ..providing that the budget of one of those fancy conferences is enough to build 3 or 4 projects like ElRC, so..with a very simple calculation...tens of projects could be established every year in many african and islamic world..and natives From US and Europe should be working in these projects..so..people (again..ORDINARY people)get to know each other in a natural way..simple and real..away from media and flashes..

2) Speaking about the titles...when have titles like (ISLAM) AND THE (WEST) dialogue..., we don't say (East) and (WEST) dialogue...or (Moslems) and (Christians)dialogue..i mean the two parties of the dialogue are not of the same category!!!one of them is religous (Islam)..and the other is more social (the West)..
while actually it should be(by it's nature and aspects) East and West dialogue..
Which necessarily lead to confusion between the concepts of religious and social concepts, similarly what was happening in Europe and America in the early twentieth century ... that the description of a social problem may differ or agree with the characterization of religious same problem ... this is subject to various factors, no To mention here. But always be able to understand when the separation between the two concepts, and when we relate them to each other. A very important factor in solving these problems , otherwise we well come to a point where we can’t tell which is which.

3) To create a fair dialogue between the two cultures there shouldn't be any predefined accusation for Moslems or Arab..as if every Moslem is a potential terrorist..butting the Moslems in a defensive corner before even you start the dialogue could do a great harm to the peace precess., Terrorism has no HOME NOR RELIGION..it could be anywhere for different reasons..and we should all faceit
(mentally) and peacefully..not with Violence.

4) Reaching a FAIR and PEACEFULL solution in Areas of political tension in the Middle East (For example, YOU must fulfill the promises given by Western governments for the Palestinians) will help a lot .

Finally i'll end my words with a poem i wrote about peace..i'll do my best to attend the event tomorrow (i'll be outside cairo)..thanks for the invitation..now here's the poem

War
There's nothing in war.. But sadness and fears
Nothing so bright.. Only scary tears
Nothing to proud of ...Only tons of shame
No winner,No losser.,No trace of life remains
God..WHO CAN STOP THE WAR?
WHO CAN STOP THE MADNESSWHO?
CAN BREAK THE WALL?
Prayers were told from high above..
Prayers were told by birds and trees..
By mountains,by rivers..By oceans.. and seas
Prayers were told so loudly and clear
But yet very few have managed to hear
They begged and appealed the rest to listen
But they were damn busyPreparing their coffins
GOD ..WHO CAN STOP THE WAR?
WHO CAN STOP THE MADNESS?
WHO CAN BREAK THE WALL

????????????????????????????????*******************************************

By cambridge_train

E.mail : .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
url: http://www.thestarlitecafe.com/perl-bin/base/search.cgi?name=cambridge_train

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Suliman in Germany and Sam B. in Iran,

Good to see you back on the blog Saman, and I guess the best way to answer Suliman's question of when the hammer gets dropped on Iran is when there's no other alternative.

Defense Sec. Gates yesterday stated clearly that this nation is doing everything it can to prevent a major conflict from starting in the region.

Every conflict we've been involved in for the last few decades (Grenada and Panama aside) have been in support of Muslim's right to live in peace. The liberation of Kuwait, Iraq, Afghanistan, stopping genicide in the Balkans. It's not too hard to figure out who your friends are when the going gets rough under tyrany.

Sometimes that action has come better late than never in the minds of many.

Even so, we have a pretty consistant track record regardless if we anger some by considering Israel to be worthy of that same support for their existance.

Muslims have called for an "even handed approach" and I submit they've had that as US policy for some time where it concerns the common welfare of everyone in the region.

If it comes down to the point where my nation has to eliminate Iran's capacity to make war directly or by proxi, it won't look like Hiroshima or Nagasaki, that I can assure you of.

Back in '38 folks were doing everything they possibly could to prevent a major conflict in Europe, and hell was paved with the best of intent.

I don't know how much longer we can wait to prevent that from happening today, but we are dealing with a carbon copy mindset of Hitler's.

As a nation, America was completely unprepared to meet that threat in '38, but that is not the case today.

50 million died because the world didn't have its act together enough to prevent that from happening. Today the international community struggles to do so.

From a practical and pragmatic understanding of what it will take to eliminate Iran's offensive missile capability, including Hisbollah's, the only way to prevent launch on warning is to destroy any guidance systems on board.

At light speed, without warning.

The only way to do that is through a byproduct of nuclear detonation called EMP (electro-magnetic pulse) and it's never been tried on a national scale.

It's perhaps the only way to castrate the regime without killing a lot of folks outright.

Because nuclear detonation at 200 miles up won't contaminate the environment, it'[s at the edge of space far above the troposphere and not even gamma rays will pass through that much atmosphere, but EMP will. Just like a very strong solar flare will shut off electrical grids as it did in Canada some years back, it is the same type of electro-magnetic energy discharge with the same effect.

Depending on the strength of the amplitude of the pulse both low frequency and high (low frequency blows open circuit breakers and the high frequency fries the electronics all down the line).

Everything and anything in Iran with a circuit board will cease to function instantaneously.

Lights out. Back to horse and buggy days for years before the infrastructure can be repaired.

When you're in the buisiness of protecting populations, it becomes nessesary to seek alternatives to traditional means of warfare if it cannot be avoided.

There's some 300 million at risk at present in the region, every one of them within range of Iranian missiles, their biological programs, as well as their intent to put a nuke on a missile, (actually about 100 before they declare themselves a nuclear power, if they don't simply nuke themselves and blame it on us or the Israeli's first, Nantez being expendable for such political purposes).

I personally think that we have a ways to go yet before we need to take such action, or any military action at all, but that could change at any moment.

Thing a lot of folks are concerned about is the interdiction of shipping included in the new sanctions, and from my perspective the thing our navy needs to be most concerned with is a trojan horse.

A ship filled with amonium nitrate or explosives set off deliberately while inspection is underway.

It's a real easy way to block shipping in the Persian Gulf for months clearing the wreckage off the bottom, including sunken US warships.

Such an event would be in the explosive yield range of a tactical nuclear weapon.

Port Arthur, Texas suffered an accident during WW2 of a munitions ship going up, setting off another one beside it and the resulting explosion blew an entire loaded freight train twenty yards off its tracks and destroyed the port as completely as if an atomic bomb had been dropped on it.

I suggest therefore that our navy interdict suspect vessels at a stand-off distance of at least 1000 yards, and don't take any chances.

Whatever we do, don't direct the vessel into the nearest port before inspection.

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Eric in New Mexico writes:

@Marie-Sophi,

Here's a plan; Get a dozen super-tankers or more, outfit them with temperature regulation in the hold, and on-board pumping capacity with a heater on the end of the intake pipe, sail down to Antartica and tap into the calving ice shelves directly before they melt.

That's a lot less expensive way to assure fresh water for all than fighting over it.

It's free for the taking if you have the means to go get it.

A dozen tankers would assure a continuous supply of the purest drinking water on Earth for a whole lot of folks. A hundred in opperation would be ideal.

Right now folks in MENA region are tapping into aquifers under the Sahara that can't be replaced and will eventually become contaminated by sea water as the levels drop, and that is occuring today in some areas.

I honestly don't see another viable long term solution for you than this.

Desalinization plants can only go so far to meet the need.

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Jillian C.Y. in Massachusetts writes:

I am incredibly offended by President Obama's recent comments that his outreach toward the Muslim community is "designed precisely to reduce the antagonism and the dangers posed by a hostile Muslim world to Israel and to the West."

I find that comment to be so far fetched from the reality of Israel's antagonism toward Palestine. The majority of the Muslim world is not "hostile" toward the West, and anger (though certainly not violent actions) toward Israel is most often justified by Israel's actions toward innocent civilians in Gaza and the West Bank.

I would like to see President Obama apologize to the Muslim community for that statement. Any outreach toward Muslims should be geared toward bridging gaps and creating understanding, and most importantly: listening to actual concerns from the community, rather than pretending to understand them.

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Marie-Sophie G.H. in France writes:

"MUSLIM COMMUNITIES" is this really the theme of conversation?: As long as each does respect the other,worldwide, that's good as we all were 12 different brotheren tribes under "Divine command" -Now when it comes to Israel and Palestine, all it comes to is this:"HOW WILL YOU/WE RESOLVE THEIR WATER ISSUE" Some documentaries suggest bringing it along from the red sea to the dead sea,but no matter what project lays ahead, it is a very tough call when you figure the geographical shape of Israel plainly trapped in the middle which is probably one of the essential reasons why this country feels constant threats to its borders with little realistic solutions for PEACE and consequently apeasement to its neighbouring states where Muslims tend to confuse territorial property with spiritual one. Amen!

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Sam B. in Iran writes:

I read audience's note, some of us wrote down our personal ideas with a lot of useful questions, to sum up, we all be caught of theology!
In analysis these conflicts, you can judge who is convict? substantially we have a common enemy, Iran!

The Israel and Palestine's problem, the war in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Iraq's fight, especially those suicide bombing , that all originating of the Islamic Republic of Iran; if the world community essay to upset this agitator, it'll solve the P worry between Muslims and the west world.

Thank You

Posted on Fri Jul 09, 2010

Theresa A. in New York writes:

Hi,Ask the people in Pakistan if they want a McDonald's or Starbucks ? We need our troop here!!! Now more then ever. Can we talk about that? 47 Hospitals closed in N.Y in the last 4 years. More then that in Ca. What are we fighting for?????? Just like Nam

Posted on Thu Jul 08, 2010

Douglas J.P. in Oregon writes:

My question would be... Since Christians, Jews and Muslims all worship the same GOD from the old testiment what would be a agreeable way to unite all religions through the understanding of Gods laws not the interpitation of those laws by man? The Universe is a big place good is good, love is love and jeaulosy and hate are just what they are. Cannt we come together and show God how much beauty and forgivness the human race has and live up to mankinds true potential to make this planet a great place to live not just for humans but for all of gods creatures and creation? How is the best way to pose such a question that it would touch the hearts and minds of all? God and good Bless this planet. Douglas J.P.
July 2 at 3:48pm
Now once the common energy of good and God is understood there are basics of humanity to turn our attention to. What are your ideals for the future? Your hopes dreams inspirations? How do you see your children and famillys living Gods will if this where paradise we are living in now? What if you became all you could be and the world could be as beautiful as it really by rights should be? How would you bridge the gap between muslims and the rest of the world as brothers of one God? Good and God bless.
Douglas J.P.
What are you ideas for bringing gods will to this planet? What actions can the muslim community as a whole unite on to show the world how to be better by example? Are there community actions that can be taken say in europe like a day of doing good will and gods will on the planet? Maybe as simple as cleaning u the streets or helping poor people to show even the hardest of hearts a smile. After my travels of the world I have come to a conclusion. It is not the color of a mans skin, the slickness of his tongue or the shape and size of his eyes or body...but it is the color of your soul and your very GOD heart that matters. The real living angels from God on this planet are alone only surrounded by sick twisted freaks...is this what we as humans want to show GOD? Is there even one who will stand up for justice rightiosness and show GOD that mankind is not a failed race, a disease ir parasite to this planet? The last question is for Hillary Clinton hopeing she will free me of the chains that bind... Most people already have beliefs...its not that where the disagreements come in. Its using differant words or languages to explain the exact same thing that all the problems come in. Most people...not all Ive met real evil right here in the states...ex cops and oregon...but most want to be good, want to be happy, want to have self worth respect and the ability to live free... Its when someone is forced to have no chance or normal way to live and see no hope for a way out that they resort to violance...normally anyway. Some people are violant by nature but that shows up in the way they treat the animals...In my opinion. It starts with a hope and dream of a future....without that everyone just keeps blowing up everyone and he with the biggest and best bombs win? Thats not a solution for long term peace anywhere it only leads to licling your wounds and waiting for another day...wich the mideast has quite the history of. Its only chance is through the vision of seeing a future with dreams of you children and famillies living with a common goal...like saving the planet or space exploration or,or,or
What would it take to create a war free zone as a experiment in the middle east? I would think Israelis could help turn some of the palastinians land into a food bascket and show a good and God heart to muslims and the muslims could help with the land and all europe and usa could come together with ideas to transform a patch of the desert into a beautiful oasis with all mankind pulling together to make a little one world community for the people by the people without the governments ideas for division in the way? A new garden of eden so to speak! Does anyone like this idea? Please respond. Then by example Israelis muslims and christians ... Buddas also.. Could unite and try to see if we as a species can make this world happen!
July 3 at 11:38am ·
I created or God gave me a free energy machine that would do just that. Instead of a thank you steve ahlbergs group...head of specal warfare for bill clinton liked to steal everythng I ever worked my life for and give me a cureable disease to die, MRSA staph infectiion. So I know it s completely possible through God.

Posted on Thu Jul 08, 2010

Victoria in Arizona writes:

TO BE STRONG ON ISRAEL, YOU HAVE TO BE HARSH TO THE PALESTINIANS. Wrong. The Palestinians have to throw Hamas out the door or window whichever comes first together with their Jihadist friends. Palestinians have to recognize Israel's right to exist and start putting Israel into their school text books. Hamas has to permit Palestinians to work in Israel and earn good money. But Hamas does not permit that any more. Harsh on the Palestinians, no! Hamas is doing enough harshness on these unfortunate people.

Posted on Thu Jul 08, 2010

T.T.S. in Virginia writes:

It is wonderful that Muslims can expect to be treated fairly in America but why do they not return the favor to ethnic and religious minorities, especially in Pakistan and Afganistan? They are considered to be second class citizens and cannot hold a job higher in status than a Muslim.

Posted on Thu Jul 08, 2010

T.T.S. in Virginia writes:

Please tell us why the west should allow even partial FGM in America. Muslim communities, especially the men of those communities, are proponents of this surgical procedure performed on little girls which limits their ability to experience full sexual pleasure as women.

Posted on Thu Jul 08, 2010