~~We Have a Dream~~

 I remember reading an article once, that presented an idealistic,  and I suppose,  rather illogical theory:  What if all  mothers, all over the world,  woke up one day and decided that they would only 'teach' their children to be peaceful?   Wrestling over toys,  angry words with or toward siblings and friends would be strongly discouraged.  Fighting over the a television channel, the computer, or the last few chips in the bag would be immediately re-directed.   As children grew into young adults,  the thought of going to war, of fighting for their country, would not be an option.  The focus was a  kind of a universal parental boycott!  When I read this article,  so many years ago,  I was very young and idealistic myself,  and  I remember thinking, 'YES! This could work!  In all these billions and trillions and zillions of years that we as a human race, have BEEN, why hasn't anyone thought of this yet?!  I chuckle to myself as now, as I write these words.  
   It seems to me that this practice, or ethical choice of child-rearing, would have to be presented, and agreed upon, universally, so that everyone had it straight...  so that ALL world leaders,  politicians, etc. grew up with same philosophy.  That would insure that no one would even think of fighting over land or religion!  
  So, what if everyone  (in the whole world) did indeed decide to radically 'turn over a new leaf?'  What if all moms did wake up one morning, and decide to 'require' their children to choose a  peaceful path?  How long would we be able to 'steer them straight,' even if it was exactly what everyone else in the world was doing?  How long before they developed their own ideas about life, about what is right or wrong, about which road 'they' wanted to take?  How long before that  seemingly innate 'rebellious seed' springs forth?  It is human nature to learn by experience, sometimes the 'wrong experience and sometimes  the hard way.'  Even if, by some miracle,  we could promote this way of life, and raise these 'peace-loving persons,' would they be capable of getting through the tough times, and  to stand up for what they believed in, right or wrong?   
   The bible teaches that we should 'love our neighbors and forgive our enemies.'  I don't think anyone would argue that this definitely is  wisdom of the Highest order.  If we are to have one goal..as humans, this should be it.  Attaining that all forgiving love, the kind of love that takes us through the fire, is a process.   One  that evolves us, from self-driven creatures, out to make a mark,  into caring members of the human family.  Learning this kind of selfless love is a life's work...  a long journey,  where we learn our lessons moment by moment.   Although, as parents,  we may want to raise 'caring human beings' who want to love and forgive one another, others exist on this earth with no such aspirations.   Their mission might include fighting for what they believe in, but not by any peaceful means.   It is up to us, and ultimately to our children,  to build a better world, while so-existing with persons who may strive to tear it down. 
  I haven't abandoned the  dream that  we can teach our children  to value 'love,' above all else.   Our children must be encouraged early on, to be independent problem-solvers, to exercise  their free wills,  and to realize that it is okay to make decisions, occasionally make mistakes and  to learn from them.   Although fighting and wars may be inevitable in the course of history, the hunger for peace can be greater. 
   I, too, have a dream.

  Let it be our dream!
    

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