newleaf

Anger. Hatred. Resentment. Belief systems.

All irrational mindsets that are deeply rooted in all this.

How we respond will further define this vicious cycle.

But how do we respond? As an international community. As nations. As communities. As individuals.

France has vocalized this was an act of war. Ironic since war is precisely what they want. Is war ever the answer? Or does war only creates more anger, hatred, resentment. And when has war not created a power vacumn that bred more evil?

But. Is diplomacy ever possible with irrational minds? You cannot argue against another's belief system. Especially when it is so deeply rooted that they are ready or seek, to die, from it. If perspectives are different, there is no meaningful conversations.

Can anger ever be contained? Don't think so. Not when technologies and information exchange created a world with no boundaries. Not when the risk of lone wolf outliers further threatens the lack of predictability when they may not even adhere to the mandates of the central organization.  Not when the thread is irrational.

So how do we respond.

As usual, there probably is no single optimal answer.

There is likely some grounds for continued containment. To limit their resource. To limit proliferation of their extreme ideals. But to think they can be extinguished is likely naive.

There is likely some grounds for diplomacy, even if only to achieve an ongoing presence of international pressure against such thread. Form some form of unity. Better information sharing and security efforts could probably lead to, well, more security.

And there is probably grounds to continue to breed tolerance and compassion, to diffuse further anger, hatred, resentment. Continue to learn about our differences. Continue to find similarities.

At times like this, the natural reaction is an instantaneous radial aggressive angry response. It is probably better to carefully evaluate the options and potential implications. Answering anger with anger never works. When has that argument ever turned into a productive resolution?

This is an opportunity to grow closer as a people. Thread will always be among us. I see that all the time in my work. Most of it is unpredictable and irrational. Be vigilant. Form effective safety nets and protective mechanisms. Seek and diffuse potential threads. Show compassion and care.

And carry on.