A Department Of Peace...

The world seems to be spinning faster and faster and more out of control lately. I am not one to buy the fear that is being sold to us by Bush/Ridge/company. But you know, sometimes it is difficult. Hearing about terrorist plots to bomb financial sites in New Jersey. Sites in Texas and Louisiana. Reading the news about Iran and our new sabre rattling towards that country. It is enough to drive one over the edge. But I know we must go on and hope that sensible minds will overcome. Sensible, rational and ethical minds to lead countries and companies. These minds can create a better world. One of the greatest ideas to get us on the road to sanity is the Department of Peace (http://www.dopcampaign.org). This is a proposed cabinet level department put forward by Congressman Kucinech and other forward thinking congresspersons. The notion is that peace must become an "organizing principle in our society". The department would deal with policies that address: domestic violence, abuse, substance abuse, rehabilitation, programs that promote non-violence, international security, human rights, conflict resolution.... You get the picture? The idea for the department is one that is SO needed today. Rather than fear, why don't we try to instill hope. Instead of reacting to violence why don't we try to resolve issues and conditions that foment violence and struggle. With the make-up of the House and Senate today, the bill has little chance of passing with the likes of Shays, Hastert, Frist, etc. But maybe if the public raises their voices in support, like Walter Cronkite (http://www.yankton.net/stories/081204/opE_20040812035.shtml) has , well maybe.... Imagine wouldn't it be great if our elected officials started listening to their constituents rather than to the "money men and women". That would be a fantastic way to demonstrate democracy to the world. Let us lead by example rather than through the barrel of a gun.