 Dear Friends and Neighbours, Like you, I live in this beloved, arid, bloody piece of land between the Mediterranean Sea and the desert, part of which is called Jordan, part Palestine and part Israel. The part I live in is called Israel. There is no future here for any of us unless we can live in peace and mutual respect. There can be a very bright future in Palestine/Israel for both nations, if we turn our energies to co-operation and constructive enterprise. If we continue to turn our energies to conquest, hate, terror, confrontation and repression of other people we will destroy each other and ourselves. Anybody who thinks that one side can overcome the other is probably deluded. Even if it were possible, it would produce a warped society among the "victors." Some people believe that the solution must begin with political actions by governments: the Israeli government must do thus and such, the Palestinians must do thus and such. But the political peace process is stalled. Part of the solution must be an act in the hearts and minds of people, a dialogue between neighbours to demonstrate to each other that we want peace, and to gain a common ground for discussion and constructive effort. It is easier to share land, resources and holy places with neighbours than it is with enemies. I believe we will only have peace when we put peace first, before justice, before holy places, before land, before security. From peace can flow prosperity, security and a measure of justice for both sides. Without peace, we have none of these things. There are other Israelis and other Palestinians who think as I do; hopefully there are many others. We are trying to reach people who want to advance the cause of peace through dialogue and common action. If we can draw together a number of people who are willing to engage in constructive dialogue, we will have a modest beginning. If we can all agree to come forward in support of peace, we can become a unique political force that cannot be ignored as "propaganda" by leadership on both sides. Every person living in the Middle East must decide if they want to try to solve our problems through constructive action and dialogue, or if they want to be a part of the problem. Violence and hate will only lead to more violence and hate. Dialogue and discussion are not quick solutions - it takes a long time to build, and only a second to destroy. This way will not bring quick results, but it is the only way that will work. If we are persistent, we will convince one person, and then another. Like water on a stone we will wear away at the hate and fear that characterises our region. This is the only way we will have peace, and having peace is the only way we will be able to survive: we and our children and their children. Sincerely, Ami Isseroff D.Sc. www.ariga.com/peacewatch |
