United Nations: Are We Really United?

Yesterday the Palestine Authority got voted into the United Nations. It doesn't get to vote, but it is recognized as a state. One hundred thirty-eight countries voted for Palestine, nine voted against, and forty-one abstained. This is turning into a pretty big deal from the U.S. perspective. The NY Times called it "a blow" to the United States.

Here's the deal: I don't understand why the U.S. feels like it gets to be upset that Palestine is getting recognized. We completely took their land after World War II to make Israel. How is it a surprise that they're upset? Granted, taking other peoples' land is something the U.S. is really good at, but why is it that we feel like we should decide whether or not Palestine gets to be part of the United Nations?

The more countries in the United Nations, the better! The whole point of the UN is to "unite nations," isn't it? I feel like the U.S. is that popular girl who is a major diva and tells other people not to talk to "that new girl" or something. Why can't we just get over ourselves and accept other people? It's not that hard.

Today I'm going to go out and mingle with people. I am going to say "hi" to five strangers. I think the more united our local communities are, the more united and tolerant our country will be. I challenge you to say "hi" to five strangers today! In our culture it's not normal, but you know, it's not too hard to start.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." --Gandhi

Remembering September 11, 2001

This was the view from my balcony this morning of the edge of night receding. On this eleventh anniversary of September 11, 2001, I think it's important to take a moment to be still. Watching the edge of night disappear over the horizon making way for a beautiful blue sky was my moment. Not to sound incredibly cliche, but I hope we will get to see the edge of killing recede in our lifetimes. Listening to the local news this morning, I heard three different murders mentioned. Then on national news, an airstrike that killed members of Al-Quaeda in Iran was featured. Of course, the victims of the attacks on September 11, 2001 were mentioned as well. We need to work toward a more peaceful and tolerant world. Today give yourself a moment to remember the people who have died because of the intolerance of others. Then take another moment to think about your own intolerances of others. How does the way your intolerance hurt other people? It probably doesn't kill them, but killing usually doesn't start with killing; it starts with intolerance. Try to understand why your intolerance exists and then try to see the other side. Today work toward a more peaceful world by shelving your own intolerance and accepting others for who they are. This is the only way to start the cycle of tolerance and peace. It starts with you.

"Be the change you wish to see in the world." --Gandhi