Patterns

After going through today's readings, I am amazed at the pattern that is coming up again and again throughout history. I see that in the continual shuffling of power in Jerusalem, the actions taken by its leaders, and the religious tendencies that come up from the groups involved. Whether it is a Christian, Jewish, or Roman leader, almost without fail, they failed to represent the minority groups. Without fail, the minority groups became disgruntled and rose up against their oppressors.

That has caused me to reflect on the discussions had throughout our class. When the topic of Jerusalem has come up, the idea that the Israelis are oppressing the Palestinians is brought up. I am becoming less and less surprised with that perception as I am looking at the history of that region. I can think of very few if any times where the governor of that region has equally represented all of the faiths. Sure there have been a few here and there but I struggle to find a group that has done just that.

With that in mind, the thoughts I have are along the lines of how can we fix a problem that has been reoccurring throughout history for thousands of years? Every major monotheistic faith has had the opportunity to rule in that region and at one point in time or another, they have all been the perpetrators of this conflict. You cannot simply blame this on religion, borders, resources or history. This conflict has to do with people simply not being willing to respect one another.

That respect is the key in my mind. There has always seemed to have been the mentality of it is "us versus them" and that is the powder in the keg that is ready to explode. This requirement is universal for all parties involved in the conflict. Every one is to blame for this situation. When I look back on the utopia that is my last post, that is only possible when the actors in the Israel/Palestine conflict learn to come together and work through their differences for the common good. This conflict is far too old and far too unsustainable to continue with this status quo. I look forward to the day where people not only in Israel but all around the globe learn to do just that.