I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki. Today, I want us to examine a critical issue: the relationship between religion, radicalism, rationality, and reality. This reflection is inspired by global conflicts, such as the ongoing tensions in the Middle East and other volatile situations worldwide.
Radicalism vs. Rationality: Lessons from Conflict
When I say, “I nor go gree dey tear clothes,” I mean that a refusal to listen, compromise, or rationalize often leads to destruction and suffering. This is not just a metaphor but a reality evident in global conflicts.
For instance:
- The Israel-Palestine Conflict:
- Hamas, advocating for Palestinian self-determination, has often used radical means to resist Israel.
- Israel, a nation with the right to exist and defend itself, has retaliated with overwhelming force.
- Both sides have suffered immense loss—lives, infrastructure, and the prospect of lasting peace.
Radicalism often garners short-term support. However, the long-term consequences are devastating. Imagine the resources spent on destruction being used to build schools, hospitals, and infrastructure.
Reality of War and its Consequences
Human history shows us that every crisis eventually ends at the negotiating table. So why not pursue peace from the beginning?
- Hamas and Gaza: The leadership’s insistence on radical measures has led to devastation. Resources that could build cities are used to construct tunnels. Lives that could thrive are lost.
- Israel’s Retaliation: The response has been equally forceful, flattening buildings and decapitating leadership. This cycle of destruction benefits no one.
This pattern repeats in conflicts worldwide:
- Ukraine and Russia: The refusal to rationalize has led to the destruction of cities, loss of lives, and destabilization of global economies.
- Syria and Hezbollah: Radical actions have drawn in external powers, leading to further devastation.
The VUCA World
We live in a world that is volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA). In such a world, calmness, rationality, and a willingness to compromise are essential. Unfortunately, human nature often delays rationality until after significant bloodshed and destruction.
A Call for Peace and Rationality
To avoid catastrophic consequences, we must:
- Pursue Peace: As the Bible says, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” Seek resolution before escalation.
- Be Rational: Assess the long-term impact of your actions before acting.
- Face Reality: Recognize that the world has changed. The global nature of conflict means that one reckless act can have far-reaching consequences.
This applies to individuals, communities, and nations. As I often say, “Try as much as possible to live at peace with all men.”
Final Thoughts
Radicalism without rationality leads to ruin. Let us choose the path of wisdom, peace, and progress.
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God bless you.
Dr. Charles Apoki
