given representation at the peace talk table. The women in Northern Ireland when participating at the peace talks table, brought new insights into conflict resolution.
Also in our own experience people in conflict often need outside help in
Their peace processes. In N.Ireland we had Irish/British/American help.
So too it will be important to build Middle East Community, i.e., Palestine/Israel/Syria/ Lebanon,/Jordan, and Iran.
Building Economic/Cultural/Friendship links with all these countries will be Israel’s best form of security, and a more reliable one, than nuclear weapons, Militarism, and ongoing enmity. Israel, (and USA) talking to enemies like Iran, is the only way to solve problems, as war, nuclear weapons and militarism no longer are acceptable and do not work.
The question of Jerusalem can be solved.
Why not share the City, or alternatively could it be a World City State?
Three great religions Islam, Christianity, Judaism, who trace their roots to the prophet Abraham, could be a light to the world, and give us all hope, if they can begin to live together in peace, justice and reconciliation.
The question of Palestinian refugees is indeed painful and difficult.
Sadly the wounds of Nakba are wide open, and will not be healed until Israel apologies for the Nakba, and recognises the Right to Return of the Palestinian refugees. Jewish society needs to do this, because in their heart of hearts they are a people who themselves suffered in the Holocaust and know the pain of injustice and the need for not only an apology but also restitution to allow healing and reconciliation to take place.
I am hopeful for the future peace of Israel/Palestinian. I take my hope from the resilience, patience, and courage I have witnessed in so many Jews and Arabs living and work for peace, and I encourage you to hold onto your hope and believe passionately peace will come in your day.
Thank you.
God Bless you all.
Salaam, Shalom, Peace,
Mairead Maguire
www.peacepeople.com
4th June, 2008-05-31 Bil’in, Palestine
Maried has also said:
"Hope for the future depends on each of us taking non-violence into our hearts and minds and developing new and imaginative structures which are non-violent and life-giving for all. Some people will argue that this is too idealistic. I believe it is very realistic. I am convinced that humanity is fast evolving to this higher consciousness. For those who say it cannot be done, let us remember that humanity learned to abolish slavery. Our task now is no less than the abolition of violence and war.... We can rejoice and celebrate today because we are living in a miraculous time. Everything is changing and everything is possible.
"While Governments can make a difference, in the final analysis it is the individual – that is each one of us – that will bring the dream of a non-violent world to reality. We, the people must think and act non-violently. We must not get stuck in the past as to do so will destroy the imagination and creativity.(Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher).
