Many centuries ago a mediocre carpenter said it best:

Love one another.

Turn the other cheek.

Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.

He was working from a tradition that said Thou shall not Kill.

I am not a Christian but these are some of the main tenets of my life. I go thought this world wondering why these don't figure more highly in the lives of others as well. Especially in Northern Ireland. If they would listen to their religion and forget about the worngs done in their history they could find peace for their children.

Unfortunately this is the most difficult path of all. This path requires more courage than facing the bullets and bombs of the other side. This path requires ne to put down the weapons and stand clear of the hate. It requires both sides to learn to love one another and do unto one another as they would have done unto them.

Until this happens I have made some resolutions in my life. I will not wear orange or green on St Patrick's day. I will never sing the songs (from either side) of the Irish conflict. And I will never donate to any charity concerned with Ireland unless I am positive that money will go to the needy and not go for weapons.