The recent violence in Paris by seven heavily armed radicals is yet further evidence that we are entering a new age of serious unrest. How long before it visits America again as it did on 9/11? What can be done to prevent this kind of evil in our land? Rest assured that our leaders will be considering all options as they did after the World Trade Center attack. Pray that this time their decisions are more intelligent and might have some effect on the real problem rather than their chances for reelection.
First, it would be helpful if we could know the root causes of these wanton attacks upon innocent people. These attacks, like the many shootings we have witnessed in our country, are so difficult to understand for ordinary Westerners. Each individual suicide attacker may have a different motivational system for his action, but we need to seek a common underlying theme.
Let us postulate that rapid technological change in the past century has become unbearable for certain groups and cultures. Humans tend to resist change when it happens too fast and when it challenges deeply held cultural norms. This is especially true for the poorly educated populations. Rapid change in the developed countries creates great instability in the poorer countries and allows for reactionary opportunists to take advantage of the situation. Widespread social chaos is the result in that part of the world. But, how will all this foreign instability affect America?
Here in America we also can see resistance to change. Our two parties are seriously divided regarding change and progress. The so-called conservative party is against most change and indeed should be labeled the Reactionary Party; The party of “No”; The party of “No Compromise”. Political discord is strongly entrenched here. Where does the reader imagine that will take us? … No place good! …
If any home grown political terrorism erupts in America where will it come from. It could come from any disgruntled minority or even from the minority party. History has shown that progressives rarely initiate violence, but once violence is unleashed it is very difficult to contain. The delicate balance of a modern society is easily sent into chaos, and that is the objective of the terrorists. They know that peace and harmony can rapidly unravel and bring an adversary to its knees. They also know that America will spend recklessly on military actions until we are on the brink of bankruptcy. The deficit spending becomes a huge burden for the next generations. That may include you and your children!
If our political parties do not soon find common ground and seek compromise solutions to our growing national problems, we can expect only more dysfunction. America may now be at its lowest level of social cohesion since the Civil War. It will take great leadership and political will to guide us to higher ground.
The terror in Paris will put our American political systems to the test. If we overreact as in 9/11 it can become very costly. Our overreaction can make things worse. It is sometimes best to just be vigilant and carefully calculate each move. This global terrorism is best handled with a worldwide, unified, and coordinated policy. The enemy is expecting that policy will not be implemented easily. Maybe by centuries end, we will have a strong and enforceable International Governing Body in place! That will be a lofty goal indeed.
A recent shooting attack in San Bernardino California is especially troubling and we must remain calm while the FBI continues a detailed investigation.
Meanwhile, this is an appeal to the reader to please stay calm, patient, and not allow fear to ruin your future. America can be largely isolated from the worst attacks due to our enviable geographic location. Do not fall victim to fear mongering. Fear is totally uncalled for. We have many more problems to solve at home that directly affect us before we attempt to solve the overseas problems.
Is there a more enlightened Congress in our future? An unusually strong voter turnout in 2016 can make America’s future shine brighter. A better educated America will vote for more capable leaders and representatives to unite us in a united spirit for solving problems. Please vote for expanded Education funding while voting to reduce Military spending.
A strong Voter turnout in November 2016 will be a fine start!
