PEACE

This is a newspaper clipping of my Dad back in 1970. As you can see, he was in opposition to Joan Baez and the peace movement.  He served his country in the Korean War, coming home with three Silver Stars and the Purple Heart.  Medals of honor and bravery in combat.  He followed his conscience by protesting a movement that he believed was unpatriotic..  He was a life long member of the Democratic Party.  The Peace movement was not supported by either party at that time.  As a young child I was enamored with the songs of protest by Pete Seeger, Bob Dylan, and Joan Baez.  I was also proud of my Dad.  As you can imagine, this created an inner conflict.  I believe in non violent resolution to conflict. I also believe in the right to self defense and the "right to bear arms".   My conscience has made peace with these seemingly opposing views. 

Most certainly we must follow our conscience in the face of opposition. Opposition comes from people who do not care about us at all and from the people who love us the most. It has been my experience, that standing up to the people who love us when their conscience is in conflict with our own can be the most challenging. Holding a peaceful and loving stand in the face of opposition takes more courage than any type of fighting.  These are my opinions based on my experience and my conscience.  I fully respect that others may disagree!

Here's to the evolution of non violent resolution of conflict. Let's help future generations to be  raised with acceptance and inner peace.