Mark Juergensmeyer

I found this lecture interesting on many different levels. He is an excellent speaker and I did not feel like I had sat for an hour listening to him because he kind of captivates you with his candor and honesty. I love that he was able to ask the question, "What are the goals America has for being in Iraq?". This is a question we all should be asking ourselves and our government. I am always against war unless it is to protect our way of life here in America. If someone asks us for help we should help in a non conflict and non violent way if at all possible. In Iraq we should have gone in asked who would like to leave, escort them out, and shut down the borders. If they choose to live the way they want, that should be fine with us as long as they live that way in their country. If they choose to live in another way they should be allowed to leave.
I think it is very interesting that the belief of the people from these countries is so different from what we are told here. I am an American, but I am also intelligent enough to know that we are not given all the information, and that we are told what someone thinks we should know. We all need to look with better eyes. If these things were happening in our country would we not fight back also?? I would not want people from foreign places coming into America and telling me how I should behave, what I should believe, or who should be in control. There has to be a way to open up communication so that the best interest of the people can be carefully and thoughtfully restored to a peaceful and harmonious way of life.
There have been wars for centuries fought in the name of God, is this truly what he hoped for? I can't believe it is. I choose to believe he would want to have us grow into people that can use words and understanding for our fellow humanity, and find a way to co exist on this small planet. I really feel that this is Mr. Juergensmeyer's goal also. Communicate our beliefs and needs to each other and in a respectful way figure out how to make it work.