revolution followed by civil war. lame.
"It's easy to know what you are against, but quite another to know what you are for."
the Irish know they are against the British army being in Ireland. Once they (British) are pushed out of Ireland, and a peace treaty signed, with the understanding that Northern Ireland is still under the rule of the British King - all the sudden, the unified people of Ireland are split, and are suddenly at war with each other. this is a historical theme. even with our non-violent revolutions - we see dis-unification often follows. why???
"I tried not to get into this war, and did, now I try to get out, and can't."
once committed to an ideal - one that you have killed, not just the enemy, but also brethren for - or one where a family member or close friend has given their life for - it becomes unbearable to come to terms with any sort of compromise. Guilt outweighs integrity, like an elephant outweighs a mouse. guilt leads to suicide - integrity leads to heroism. if a nation can exploit this kind of psychology - they can become roman soldiers, crusaders, Nazis, or any sort of extremist faction.
this is a major barrier for reconciliation and resolution - and is often the foundation for violent conflict - especially conflicts that are centuries old. even so, integrity that leads to violence, is overtly one of the most celebrated ideas in our secular and religious cultures.
"And once again, with honourable exception, the Catholic Church sides with the rich."
gotta keep that tithe rolling in.
back to the original quote/question. who/what are you for - and how will that define your response (as opposed to your reaction) when injustice comes to your town?
