Children of War

“What is done to the children is done to society”-The Buddha

10“See that you do not look down on one of these little ones. For I tell you that their angels in heaven always see the face of my Father in heaven.12 “What do you think? If a man owns a hundred sheep, and one of them wanders away, will he not leave the ninety-nine on the hills and go to look for the one that wandered off ? 13 And if he finds it, I tell you the truth, he is happier about that one sheep than about the ninety-nine that did not wander off. 14 In the same way your Father in heaven is not willing that any of these little ones should be lost.-Matthew 18:10-14

Throughout the history of the world, hate has become a cycle. This is not because of ideology, history or even the actions of leaders. It is because the children of the world are taught hatred and fear. Whether this lessons comes from the lips of parents or by the death of friends and family, the lesson is the same; hate those who are different, fan the embers of rage and strike when the hand becomes strong. Children grow and become the parents of the next generation, feeding the specter that is hate and anger. This meal is served to their children and their children’s children. In many countries, this fetid bread of hatred is the only plentiful food.

Every religion, even those whose dogma preaches conversion by flame and sword praise the gift of children. Each warns of the Divine’s actions against those who would squander this gift. Even those who profess no faith beyond science or logic understand the rational concept of continuing the human genome. The power of life and death over these children falls firmly to the hands and hearts of leaders, soldiers, and priests equally. Too often, this choice is death for the sake of political expediency, religious or ideological doctrine, or fearful security.

Children die of hunger and the world screams, “Feed them!” Children die of disease and the world screams, “Cure them!” Children die in war and the world quietly mumbles, “It is necessary.”

It is never necessary.