That is a stark truth indeed.

But what is justice? Is it catharsis? Is it real? Is it something that can be achieved through war? Or is it one more illusory concept we carry and employ primarily for the "justification" of more war?

I don't pretend to know the answers to these questions, but that very "ignorance" informs me nevertheless.

Each of us is probably wired differently. For myself, I found that even though I am passionately supportive of the anti war movement and the protests and demonstrations associated with it, I am unable to be in the streets about it without becoming exactly what I protest against, another a*shole with violence in his heart. The same thing happens to me here, when I jump up to fight the righteous fight, my righteousness evaporates in the heat of battle, and soon the casualties are mounting.

I'm all for working for peace, working for justice, doing what I can to foster a better environment in which all have the opportunity to flourish. But the challenge of maintaining mindfulness while the battle rages is too much for me.

It's going to be different for everyone, what that best expression of effort toward creating a better world is, but if I'm trading blows with someone, I'm pretty sure I've lost the plot at that point.

Thank you all for considering the idea, and trying to find your own balance in the strife.

I don't believe in "bad people." Not here. Bad habits, bad ideas, bad illness, maybe, but not bad people.

Bob Marley:

"Let's get together and feel alright."

Is it that hard?

sqrl.