Thomas Paine’s Thoughts Are Wonderful, But …

U.S. founding father Thomas Paine’s thought here is a noble one indeed.

Sorry to say, however, but the odds against a period of peace in our children’s days seem to be very long indeed.  I say that because:

• War is the paradigm by which countries settle their differences, and there doesn’t seem to be any progress in changing that.

• The persecution of the Jews has been a feature of life on Earth for thousands of years, and, since the formation of Israel 75 years ago, this situation has generally gotten more violent and senseless.

• Terrorism on the part of rogue groups (and established countries) has become commonplace.

• Russia is more eager than at any time in the past to involve itself in proxy wars, and engaging in armed aggression against its innocent neighbors.

• We all hope that China is content with taking over the world economically, rather than militarily, but we all need to admit that virtually anything can happen there.

• The United States is in decline, according to all metrics that mean anything, including educational standards, as well as sane and honest leadership.

• The effects of climate change will reduce the availability of world resources: land, food, potable water, and infrastructure.  We have already seen that climate refugees are being forced from their homelands due to extreme temperatures and the other effects of all this extra heat.  Where will they go?  No one knows what havoc they will wreak.

Is there a chance to turn this around?  Of course, but it will take a great deal of work on the part of every citizen.