Thoughts offered in our time of war. . .

Somehow we find it far too easy to forget that our nation remains involved in a horrific war on the other side of the globe. 

I often wonder how long the conflict would last if the nation instituted a universal draft that touched us all more directly than our current recruiting process for an all-volunteer military. 

Then, there is the cost associated with our long-term conflict.  To be sure, the cost affects the well-being of the poor in the U. S. and around the world. 

Possibly most important, there is the spiritual side, that dimension that leads us to decide for hate or love. 

Consider these words from one of our nation's "soul leaders."

I mourn the loss of thousands of lives, but I will not rejoice in the death of one, not even an enemy.  Returning hate for hate multiplies hate, adding deeper darkness to a night already devoid of stars.  Darkness cannot drive out darkness:  only light can do that.  Hate cannot drive out hate:  only love can do that.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr