ABOUT THE

FOUNDATION
The non-partisan Harry Singer Foundation was
established in 1988 to promote greater individual
involvement in government and society.
MORE THAN ONE POINT OF VIEW
In order for people to be morc involved, they have to know
the facts on both sides of many issues and be
given the opportunity and stimulation to work those
facts into educated opinions and convictions. The
popular media (TV, radio, magazines and books) often
focus more heavily on one side of a story. That's why
we try to balance the discussions by distributing
materials representing more that one point of view.
The Harry Singer Foundation believes that with an
educated free thinking population, better leaders will emerge
and government will become more efficient.
DUAL APPROACH
In addition to providing educational resources, Singer's dual
approach encompasses programs that help the mentally,
physically, emotionally or finan-cially disadvantaged achieve
their highest potential. In this regard Singer functions as a
fund raiser for the more efficient and effective programs
already in exis-tence around the country and as an advocate
for worthy persons and organizations that may have been
over-looked by established channels. Singer focuses on
volunteers and accepts, coordinates and encourages
donations of expertise, time and labor.
FOUNDATION PRINCIPLES
* There must be input from THE PEOPLE
In his writings in 1885, Emerson claimed "The instinct of THE
PEOPLE is right." Seventy five years later, while campaigning
for the presidency, John F. Kennedy said "We hold the view
that THE PEOPLE make the best judgment in the long run" and
later declared "The efforts of governments alone will never be
enough. In the end THE PEOPLE must choose and THE PEOPLE
must help themselves."
* Every individual has an obligation
to protect his own freedom.
It has been said that liberty is the hardest test that one can
inflict on a people. To know how to be free is not given
equally to all men and all nations. We must continually
remind ourselves that laws are made for men and not men for
laws; that government is the servant of men and not their
master.
IMPLEMENTATION
Implementation is the final goal. While disseminating
information is important, action must be taken or all the
discussion is wasted. Although the Singer Foundation en-
courages writing to legislators and making opinions Icnown,
legislators are sometimesoverwhelmed by the great variety of
issues and the relentless onslaught of lobbyists determined to
effectuate change. That's why Singer believes the best way
to get certain ideas recognized and established is by showing
that they work. The Foundation helps individuals and
organizations put ideas into practice using grassroots pilot
programs. It believes facts and actual experience are the
ultimate validation of good ideas.
FUNDING
The Harry Singer Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt,
educational organization under Section 50I(c)(3) of the
Internal Revenue Code. It depends on strictly volunteer labor
and contributions of cash and other assets from the founders
to pay for all administrative expenses and overhead.
Therefore contributions of any kind from corporations,
foundations and individuals go directly and one hundred
percent to the projects for which the foundation was
established. Donors may be anonymous or aclcnowledged in
the Foundation's literature as sponsors of a specified project
or as general supporters. Beneficiaries also may be either
anonymous or specified. The Harry Singer Foundation
receives no funding from government sources.
* Every person should have the opportunity to
reach his highest potential.
Potential is diminished by ill health, poor education,
childhood abuse and poverty. Private solutions to these
problems should be encouraged. Human energy and initiative
must be free to work under the natural control of the
individual.
* Progress is made by individuals cooperating.
The accumulation of man's knowledge overcenturies has
culminated in unprecedented advancements in science and
technology. These advancements now make it possible for
individuals, living in freedom, to altain the highest levels of
self-expression.
* Education is the key to America's future.
Only an educated populace will be able to maintain and
perpetuate the ideals which made this nation great. Only
through education will the people be able to govern
themselves and compete in the new world of the twenty first
century.
War and Peace
Student Excerpts from the 2001-2002
Harry Singer Foundation National Essay Contest
Margaret Bohannon-Kaplan. Editor
Wellington Publications
WP Carmel. California
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The Reflections of Young People
In the Aftermath of 9-11
Dept of Defense




War and Peace

Reflections of Young People
In The Aftermath of 9-11
















Student Excerpts From the
Harry Singer Foundation 2001
National High School Essay Contest







War and Peace
Reflections of Young People
In the Aftermath of 9-11







Margaret Bohannon-Kaplan, Editor


Wellington Publications
W-P Carmel, California



The non-partisan Harry Singer Foundation was established in 1988 to
promote greater individual participation in government and involvement in
social issues. The views expressed here are those of the various students
who chose to enter our essay contest and do not necessarily represent the
views of the board members and staff of the Foundation.

















First Printing
Copyright 2008 by Wellington Publications
Printed in USA

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or utilized in
any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval
system, without permission from the publisher. Inquiries should be
addressed to Wellington Publications P.O. Box 223159 Carmel, California
93922

LCCN: 2008934923
ISBN: 978-0-915915-47-7





















Editor's Note:

In most cases, students gave the Foundation citations for the material that
was quoted in their papers. Because of space constraints, we generally did
not include those citations here. Also, in rare instances, material was quoted
by students and incorporated in their papers without giving proper credit.
We apologize, but must disclaim responsibility as we cannot always tell
when a student is quoting from another writer unless quotation marks are
used. This is purely an educational exercise.

This copy is distributed by the Harry Singer Foundation without charge as
part of its commitment to inform and encourage participation in public
policy.









Who is Harry Singer?
Most people have never heard of Harry Singer. He wasn't a famous
politician, a philanthropic industrialist, a creative artist, a martyred
preacher or a great inventor-humanitarian. Harry Singer was a common
man.
Harry was an immigrant. He came to this country in 1912 from a small
village in Russia. He settled in Chelsea, Massachusetts where with his wife
and five children he ran a tiny neighborhood grocery store.
Harry could have been your uncle, your brother-in-law, your next door
neighbor. He had no lust for power, no great ambitions. He was just a
good, kind, quiet man with a keen sense of justice who would jump in
when he felt something was wrong. Harry was an egalitarian who showed
respect for all men and who was respected in return.
It is fitting that a foundation dedicated to encouraging the common man's
participation in public policy decisions should be named after Harry. For it
is to the Harry Singers of a new generation that we must look if we are to
keep America competitive and strong in the world of the twenty-first
century.
The Harry Singer Foundation came into being because the descendants of
the humble egalitarian believe today what President Woodrow Wilson said
back in 1912:
"Every country is renewed out of the unknown ranks and not out of
the ranks of those already famous and powerful and in control."
i
ii
About The Harry Singer Foundation (HSF)

The Harry Singer Foundation is a non-profit 501(c) 3 private operating
foundation (IRC: 4942 j 3) located in Carmel, California whose purpose is
to promote responsibility and involve people more fully in public policy
and their communities. It was founded in 1987. It actively conducts
programs, and is not a grant-making foundation.

The founders believe many people base their decisions on erroneous or too
little factual information about public policy, private and public programs,
and the effort and goodwill of their fellow citizens. The Harry Singer
Foundation has developed programs to help correct this situation, and
would like to join with you in helping to make this nation a stronger and
better place to live and grow for this generation and generations of
Americans to come.

The Foundation's focus is on the too often forgotten average citizen. We
are not consciously looking to attract future leaders; we feel that job is
being handled adequately by a variety of existing foundations. Our goal is
to minimize the polarization we see developing in this country between the
doers and those done to the rulers and the ruled. We strive to make
everyone feel that their thoughts and ideas count; to let them know that
they are listened to and that they matter. We want our fellow citizens to
understand that a person doesn't have to be brilliant or a great
communicator in order to make a difference in America. A person does
have to care and does have to participate.

Action

It is not enough to think, write and talk about the problemswe must show
by active example what people are capable of achieving. The goal is to
find out what works within a desired framework. When participants learn
how to choose what to do without sacrificing the best American ideals to
expediency, the Foundation will provide the opportunity to put some of
their ideal choices to the test.

The Foundation first concentrated on young people because they are open
and eager to learn, are not saddled with a myriad of other social
responsibilities (like raising a family and making their own living) and they
will be around the longest and therefore have the best opportunity to make
iii
their projects work. They are ideal experimenters because time is on their
side.
Pilot Projects
We bring people together to network at our headquarters in Carmel,
California. When participants come up with ideas, HSF provides the
opportunity to put to the test, those ideas that garner the most enthusiastic
response. We do this via pilot projects and interacting with grant-making
entities as well as far-sighted businesses. Most businesses rightly have
more than altruistic motives. Their main concerns are about maintaining a
stable and growth-oriented economy and finding responsible employees.
As a side benefit, many of our projects foster these, as well as purely
altruistic goals.
We know a pilot project has been successfully launched when it attracts
enthusiastic volunteers that we call Champions. Champions are drawn to a
specific pilot project because they share its objectives. Therefore they are
eager to jump at the opportunity to bring aspirations to fruition by adding
their own unique approach to managing and expanding the project without
having to worry about funding. Of course HSF continues to provide
guidance in addition to monetary support. Singer Kids 4 Kids was once a
pilot project and Transition to Teaching was a pilot project renamed and
adopted by the state of California in 2008 to attract more science and math
mentors for Californias classrooms.
The HSF Mission
The Harry Singer Foundation mission is to prepare participants for a future
where there may be less government and a weaker safety net. Such a future
would require greater individual character, responsibility and knowledge.
There may be a need for responsible people able to care for themselves and
their less fortunate neighbors.
The Foundation offers materials online, free of charge, which can be
printed and used in the classroom or for individual education or research.
The Workbook section of the HSF web site features data to encourage
logical thinking and attention to the unintended consequences that often
accompany government or personal solutions to perceived problems. HSF
believes that society has encouraged technology and management while
neglecting principles. We need to consider not only can we do, but should
we do. To that end you will find an introduction to the seldom taught
iv
subject of logic in this section along with frequently updated ethical
dilemmas.
Before one can either reflect or help others, one must survive. HSF has
archived the thoughts of teens over a twenty year period in the Teens Speak
Out and the Archived by State forums as well as in the published books
that resulted from 41 of the 46 essay contests the Foundation conducted
between 1988 and 2007. Although many of these teen authors now are
adults with children of their own, their reflections are relevant to today's
youth who must learn to make successful personal and social choices
regarding their own ideology and careers. They too must withstand the peer
pressure of gangs, violence, irresponsible sex and addictive substances.
People change but the social issues remain.
The HSF Mission 1988-2008
The following article was written in 1995 by Amy Davidson, a free lance
writer and linguistics student at the University of California at Berkeley at
the time. This is the result of her observation of the Harry Singer
Foundation during winter break her sophomore year.
Thought, Words and Action
One wouldn't think of Carmel, California, a small coastal town south of
Monterey, as a hotbed for community action. However, nestled between
the Cypress trees and the crashing surf, the small group of dedicated people
at the Harry Singer Foundation are providing opportunities for Americans
to make positive changes in their own communities, across the nation.
Programs, designed for the general public but currently focusing on
teachers and high school students -- including essay contests, community
service project-development, online services, research materials, and
curricula development-- all are ways that members of the non-profit Harry
Singer Foundation are making a tangible difference in our nation.
Founded to preserve both the ideal and the practice of freedom, "HSF aims
to help people develop the skills and knowledge essential to the task,"
according to co-Founder Margaret Bohannon-Kaplan. "Our focus is on the
average citizen, and our goal is to motivate him or her to make positive
differences in America."
v
Martha Collings, a teacher at Plainview High School in Ardmore,
Oklahoma, whose high school students participate in annual HSF essay
contests, praised them as "a refreshing change from the usual boring ones
we are asked to enter."
Her sentiment probably arose from the complex and educationally
stimulating components of the contest. Students must incorporate first and
second-hand research, classroom discussion, individual analysis, and come
up with their own conclusions to timely topics like health care, the media's
role in national elections, the government's role in child care, and the
importance of responsibility to the proper functioning of the nation..
"This was one of the most challenging and thought-provoking contests my
students have entered," said Janet Newton, a teacher from Freeman High
School, Rockford, Washington.
Another teacher, Jerry McGinley of DeForest High School in DeForest,
Wisconsin agreed, saying, "My students put in a great deal of time and
effort reading and discussing the various articles, writing out discussion the
questions, and writing the essays."
It is likely that these teachers also put in a great deal of time. The HSF
contest includes materials and support (through online services, texts, and
personnel from the foundation) for an entire lesson plan based around
issues raised by the essay topic for a given year. HSF aims to have teachers
discuss the topic with their students extensively before the actual writing
begins.
Teacher Mary Ellen Schoonover of Strasburg High school in Strasburg,
Colorado spent a considerable amount of time on assignments and
discussions related to the 1994 topic "Responsibility: Who has It and Who
Doesn't and What This Means to the Nation."
"I felt the Singer essay was a valuable instructional tool," she said. "I
incorporated the materials into class by distributing the required reading
essays and questions to use as homework assignments with class discussion
following each week for four weeks. After discussing the essays, students
chose a topic, and classes did library research."
The result of this kind of preparation is thousands of well-researched
analyses of a topic. The essays are judged by a variety of ordinary citizens
vi
and, depending on the topic, a large sampling of attorneys, academics,
politicians, financial wizards, other teens and senior citizens. This works
because schools are not judged against each other, but only internally, so
each school ends up with awards. "That's the big attraction of our contest,"
explains board member, Donna Glacken. "Every school is a winner. That
and the fact that we publish excerpts from the contest and distribute the
hard copy book to all 535 members of congress and their state and
community politicians and home town media."
Community Involvement Occurred Gradually

In the 1992-93 school year, the Harry Singer Foundation extended the
reach of its programs. More than five thousand official candidates for
national office (most of them unknown) were polled, along with schools
and members of the media. Participants were able to see a comparison of
poll results among the three categories.

The 1993-94 subject of our essay contest: Responsibility: Who Has It and
Who Doesn't and What That Means To The Nation, generated such an
enthusiastic response that we decided to offer this contest as an annual
option. According to contest rules, students were to include in their papers
examples of five responsible acts and three irresponsible acts we were
trying to accentuate the positive. That first contest resulted in three
feedback-books.

The first book, The White Hats, featured the responsible acts. Numerous
students offered more than their quota of irresponsible acts, many in the
form of outrageous lawsuits which are the primary subject of the second
book: Responsibility: Who Has It and Who Doesn't and What That Means
To The Nation. Concealed among all the required examples was the subject
of the third book titled, Doesn't Any One Care About The Children?. It is
our plea to you in response to the cry we heard from over a thousand
teenagers. Our readers were at times overwhelmed by the anguish, despair,
rage and hopelessness found in many of the opinions and stories embedded
in those essays.

In 1995 the Foundation had students poll their communities and question
politicians, members of the local media, attorneys and others for their
opinions regarding social needs as determined by the results of those polls.
Solutions for "local governments struggling with limited resources" were
judged by a dozen governors, and a small group consisting of U.S.
senators, congressmen and big city mayors.
vii
The National High School Essay Contests Comes To An End

For twenty years the Harry Singer Foundation (HSF) offered recognition
and incentives to every high school submitting at least ten essays covering
a specified topic involving public policy and the role of government.
Students have studied and written about social security, term limits for the
United States Congress, government's role in child-care, government's role
in health care, the media's role in choosing our candidates for national
office, responsibility and even encouraged young people to work with local
government to find alternatives to old ways of servicing citizen needs.

Many students, and especially teachers, put an enormous amount of work
into our programs. Students were given reading assignments and asked to
answer twenty questions before they began their essays. Submittals were
judged on how well the topic was covered and evidence of serious
thinking, rather than on writing skill. In the spring excerpts were published
in a book and distributed back to the schools as well as to members of
Congress and to others interested in public policy. This allowed students to
see how their peers across the country handled the subject matter.
We launched www.singerfoundation.org in the fall of 1994. As more and
more schools gained Internet access they were able to receive and transfer
materials which we could put directly on our web site. Essays sent in
digital form via email freed us from having to recruit volunteers who used
the keyboard to input the work of students that used to arrive by mail as
hard copy. In 2001 we began putting entire essays online, delaying
publication of books like the one you are reading. At the end of 2006 we
decided to resume publishing the students work in hard copy and to phase
out the Foundations essay contest era. On our web site
www.singerfoudation.org you will find the complete text of every HSF
book published since 1990, often including the rules and required reading
for the particular contest. You may browse, print the entire book or request
a hard copy from the Foundation by using the contact information
provided.
We certainly have not lost interest in the goals of the HSF national essay
contests. We are particularly proud of our attempt to encourage students to
gather facts and think logically. The Harry Singer Foundation continues to
share the goal of those who teach students how to think, not what to think.
To that end we have posted links to some of, what we consider to be, the
best online essay contests offered by other organizations.
viii
2008 Begins a New Era

Current Foundation programs continue to seek and encourage the exchange
of ideas. We took two years to renovate our web site which hosts the
Foundations history. Twenty years worth of students research and
opinions may now be accessed by topic (Teens Speak Out) or by clicking
on a state in the Archive forum and finding student ideas by school, teacher
or participant. We have presented this information in a way that we believe
visitors to our web site will find useful.

You will also find on our web site new projects such as Kids 4 Kids that
was mentioned earlier. Kids 4 Kids is expanding under the expert guidance
of our Champion, Steve Platt and is now a full fledged program. While the
science and math portion of T2T is in the state of California's hands, HSF
is working to place volunteer mentors in subjects that are not on the States
agenda. With the help of future Champions we expect the program to be
picked up by states other than California. We are looking for Champions to
contact engineering companies and societies, local artists, athletes and
alumni associations to find members who are willing to donate time and
energy to teach what they love including music, art and athletics, subjects
that dont necessarily have to be taught in a classroom. The Foundation
wants to join with the numerous other groups and individuals who are
trying to bring this uncovered talent into the school system as mentors,
teacher-aids and accredited teachers. We already have a program of
accreditation that can be completed with only one day a month class
attendance for 12 months. We are also working to help teachers obtain
housing at a reasonable cost in a state where it is more expensive to live
than in other areas in the nation.
The Philanthropy Project is collaboration between the Harry Singer
Foundation and the Templeton Foundation. It is a national, multimedia
public service campaign aimed at the general public, legislators, opinion
leaders and the media. By using film and television to tell compelling
stories about the good works, conducted by mostly small and unrecognized
charitable foundations, the Philanthropy Project seeks to introduce
philanthropy to young people and to promote the spirit of philanthropy in
communities across the country.
Media Watch is a revision of an inspirational program for students initiated
by the Harry Singer Foundation in 1994. The goal is to uncover good news
in communities, feed it to local media outlets and monitor publication.
ix
x
Over the life of the project, the good news should increase in relation to the
bad news, with both kinds being carefully documented.
Another Way is the culmination of over twenty years of Foundation
experience. We know most adults underestimate the capabilities of young
people and their idealism, energy and eagerness to be productive members
of their communities. Another Way gives young people an opportunity to
prove their competence.
Problem Solvers is a pilot project geared towards college and high school
campuses. Students debate local and national issues using media (radio,
TV, newspapers). Not only do the students learn, but their nonpartisan
information would be a boon to the many in our society that find that
regulations and even laws have been passed without their knowledge and
opportunity to contribute to the discussion or dissent.
The goal of the goal of the Human Nature project is not modest. The goal
is to improve the chances that man will discover how to live with his kind
in peace and tolerance, creating a free, stable environment. Once he figures
out the necessary rules of conduct, the next step would be to figure out how
to enforce these rules while preserving maximum individual and group
freedom of thought and action.
We invite you to take advantage of opportunities to participate in, or better
yet, to Champion pilot programs by visiting our newly renovated web site
at www.singerfoundation.org.

Table of Contents



About the Harry Singer Foundation

Contents

Introduction

Section One

Rules for the essay contest
Guidelines before writing or judging
Quotations to be chosen before beginning to write
Optional email which you may discuss in your papers
"Global Development Briefing" 9-14-01
Mike Palecek's "Soul Searching"
Selections shared by Ami Dar, director of Idealist.org
"The World Sends Their Love & Support" Searchhound 9-17-01
"What You Can Do To Help" unidentified newsletter 9-17-01

Section Two

Personal Reflections

Section Three

Reflections on Quotation #1 Justine Toms
Reflections on Quotation #2 Herbster
Reflections on Quotation #3 Cicero
Reflections on Quotation #4 Unknown Author
Reflections on Quotation #5 Einstein
Reflections on Quotation #6 Henry Ford
Reflections on Quotation #7 Unknown Author
Reflections on Quotation #8 Adolf Hitler
Reflections on Quotation #9 Alfred B. Nobel
Reflections on Quotation #10 Andrew Carnegie
Reflections on Quotation #11 Billy Graham
i

1

3

5

7
8
9
12
15
16
19
21
37

41

43

59

61
66
73
78
85
95
98
101
107
112
116
1
Reflections on Quotation #12 Unknown Author
Reflections on Quotation #13 Arnold Toynbee
Reflections on Quotation #14 Jules Verne
Reflections on Quotation #15 Charles Robert Richet
Reflections on Quotation #16- Mike Paeleck
Reflections on Other Quotations Chosen By Students

Section Four

War Is It Really Worth It?:
The Crumbling Of Our Nation
War and Peace: A Viewpoint From Islamabad
War and Peace: An Essay On Man
War and Peace: A Viewpoint From Illinois
War and Peace: Is It Enough?
Participating Schools
American Wars: U.S. Casualties and Veterans

124
134
140
142
143
144

153

155
158
161
165
168
171
175
179

2
Introduction


Throughout history, men of religion, politics, science, or other
backgrounds have had a common problem to deal with. The
problem is mans inability to live in peace with the world around
him. All over the world, conflicts between men fester into bloody
violence. Wars are fought for religion, power, and wealth. Because
bigotry and greed seep down through the generations, wars rage
for centuries. Although the fire dies down, its embers smolder, and
it just takes the right person to kick up the embers and fuel the
inferno with money and innocent lives..
Jared Downey, Rockridge High, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

The preceding excerpt from Jared's essay is a sample of the
analytical thinking this essay contest produced. (see page 52) For
years English teachers have obtained similar results by using
poetry and famous quotations in their classrooms. However, the
Harry Singer Foundation essay contests are directed at public
policy and government at all levels. In the fall of 2001 the students
were already engaged and this contest gave them something to bite
intoto release the tension everyone felt after 9-11 and explore
more than their feelings. "Why did this happen; how can it be
prevented in the future?" Analysis was going on all over the
world, in offices, living rooms, tea rooms, pubs and perhaps most
of all, in classrooms. Young Americans had never experienced
anything remotely like this before. Unfortunately that cannot be
said about teenagers worldwide as evidenced by Omar's essay on
page 170.

Not surprisingly, most of the essays expressed an anti-war bias.
However, some students believed there were things worth fighting
for. Some were surprised by the quotation from Billy Graham and
perhaps influenced by it. On the other hand, Cicero's quotation
elicited scorn and outrage from some, though others sided with his
advice to settle for injustice rather than fight against it.

Be all you can be. resonates with youth who are just starting out
in the world and believe it is still possible to do just that. (Military
recruiters are well aware of this.) It is no secret that youth is the
3
most resilient and optimistic age group in any society so it is not
surprising that Ben Herbster's words, The greatest waste in the
world is the difference between what we are and what we could
become, was the quotation included in the essays more than twice
that of second choice quotation.

The second place choice was attributed to an unknown writer:
To preserve peace, we need weapons of smaller and men of
larger caliber. I believe the appeal of this quotation was simply
that it's time has come. The American people have become less
enchanted with their leaders over time. Viet Nam, Iran Contra the
Nixon and Clinton scandals in the White House and the numerous
reports of the escapades of lesser office holders who abused the
public trust were not wasted on those students who had listened in
on adult conversation.

Human frailty in general, and especially the weaknesses of elected
officials was publicized as never before beginning in the second
half of the twentieth century. This was not because there was less
abuse, but because there were less efficient means of reporting it
earlier. On top of that, the press relaxed its standards of propriety.

What applies to public officials applies to our youth also. We hear
so much bad news because it is newsit's out of the ordinary.
Most Americans are ordinary good people and that is not news.
We think you will be proud and gain confidence in our youngest
generation as you read the thoughts presented here. We believe the
nation will be in good hands and that's the motivation for this
book.

Margaret Bohannon-Kaplan
Co-Founder, the Harry Singer Foundation
Carmel, California
October 25, 2008



4
Section One









War and Peace
5

6
Rules For Participation in the
2001-2002 Harry Singer Foundation
Annual National Essay Contest
War and Peace

There are three categories:
(1) Schools that submit a minimum of ten essays.
(2) Schools with fewer than ten students submitting essays. These
schools will have their essays merged with other schools in the
same situation and judged as one school.
(3) Individuals of any age. Individual participants will find their
work displayed as Unaffiliated and their essays will be judged
with others in this category.
Certificates of Participations will be awarded to every participant
and three incentive prizes will be awarded to each school that
submits a minimum of ten qualifying entries. Occasionally there
will be ties. In that case additional prizes will be awarded.
First prize = $100, Second prize = $75 and Third Prize = $50.
You may interpret, defend, attack or update your chosen
quotation(s) by adding information gained via research on the
Internet.
Copy the chosen quotation into your essay before discussing it.
Devote a paragraph to the author.
Participants should review the guidelines and select their
quotations before beginning their essays.
7
Guidelines for Writing and Judging
Papers should be read to identify issues. Points should be assigned
before giving any consideration to style, grammar and
punctuation.
1-Interpret the quotation(s) using your own words. What does it
(do they) mean to you personally?
5 points each quotation up to 20 points total
2-Do you agree or disagree with the author? Explain why or why
not.
10 points each quotation up to 40 points total
3-Use the Internet for your research. Find material that you can
use to expand on the reasoning expressed in the quote(s) you have
chosen. Offer 21
st
century examples or facts to refute or
substantiate the sentiments expressed by the author(s)
10 points each up to 40 points total
Deduct 10 points from papers 200+ words over the upper limit
(1200+) or 50+ words under the lower limit (700-)
Points Trump Style
In past years we have come across many well-written papers that
fail to address the issues. These outstanding papers have not won
prizes because the student-writers chose to write about something
he/she cared about and did not address the issues. Do not be
dazzled by excellent writing that fails to follow the guidelines.
The Harry Singer Foundation is the final judge.
8
War and Peace Quotations


Focus your essay on one or up to four quotes from the list
below
#1
The greatest waste in the world is the difference between what
we are and what we could become. Ben Herbster
#2
I dont know what kind of weapons will be used in the third
world war, assuming there will be a third world war. But I can tell
you what the fourth world war will be fought with stone clubs.
Albert Einstein
#3
To preserve peace, we need weapons of smaller and men of
larger caliber. Unknown
#4
People are becoming too intelligent ever to have another big war.
Statesmen have not anything like the prestige they had years ago,
and what is educating the ordinary people against war is that they
are mixing so much. The motor-car, radio and such things are the
great mixers ... I believe the last war was too much an educator
for there ever to be another on a large scale. Henry Ford 1928
9
#5
The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone has such good
reasons. Unknown
#6
We must have military power to keep madmen from taking over
the world. Billy Graham
#7
The one means that wins the easiest victory over reason:
terror/and force. Adolf Hitler
#9
My dynamite will sooner lead to peace than a thousand world
conventions. As soon as men will find that in one instant whole
armies can be utterly destroyed, they surely will abide by golden
peace.
Alfred Bernhard Nobel (1833-1896)
#10
I prefer the most unjust peace to the justest war that was ever
waged. Cicero (Letter to Atticus)
#11
History teaches us that when a barbarian race confronts a
sleeping culture, the barbarian always wins.
Arnold Toynbee
#12
To kill a man will be considered as disgusting [in the twentieth
century] as we in this day consider it disgusting to eat one.
Andrew Carnegie 1900
#13
Quick-firing rifles, monstrous artillery, improved shells,
smokeless and noiseless gunpowder these are so destructive
that a great battle ... could cause the deaths of 300,000 men in a
few hours. It is evident that the nations, no matter how
unconcerned they may be at times when driven by a false pride,
10
will draw back [in the twentieth century] from this fearful vision.
Charles Robert Richet 1913 (hint: Nobel Prize winner for...)
#14
The submarine may be the cause of bringing battle to a stoppage
altogether, for fleets will become useless, and as other war
materiel continues to improve, war will become impossible. Jules
Verne 1904
#15
Peace is rare: Less than 8% of the time since the beginning of
recorded time has the world been entirely at peace. In a total of
3,530 years, 286 have been warless. Eight thousand treaties have
been broken in this time. Unknown
#16
This is one of those pivotal moments in history when we CAN
change the world for the better as we bring wisdom actively to the
for and apply it with diligence and clarity. Let's not go to reaction,
dishing out what we have received, but act in a new level of global
compassion. This is the time, we are the people. Our ancestors are
rooting for us. May we be the ones who step off the wheel of the
never ending action and reaction.
Justine Toms September 12, 2001 (New Dimensions Radio)
You may interpret, defend, attack or update your chosen
quotation(s) by adding information gained via research on the
Internet.
Copy the chosen quotation(s) into your essay before discussing it.
Devote a paragraph to the author.
The Foundation has been receiving some thought provoking email
that you may also use in your papers, in addition to the quotations
above or as a substitute.
11
Optional emails to discuss in your papers
Photo and newspaper article from the Miami
Herald received in two separate emails from a New York City
businessman and friend.
The Miami Herald - Wednesday, September 12, 2001
By Leonard Pitts Jr.


We'll go forward from this moment. It's my job to have something
to say.

They pay me to provide words that help make sense of that which
troubles the American soul. But in this
moment of airless shock when hot tears sting disbelieving eyes,
the only thing I can find to say, the only
words that seem to fit, must be addressed to the unknown author
of this suffering.

You monster. You beast. You unspeakable bastard.

What lesson did you hope to teach us by your coward's attack on
our World Trade Center, our Pentagon,
us? What was it you hoped we would learn? Whatever it was,
please know that you failed.

Did you want us to respect your cause? You just damned your
cause.

Did you want to make us fear? You just steeled our resolve.

Did you want to tear us apart? You just brought us together.

12
Let me tell you about my people. We are a vast and quarrelsome
family; a family rent by racial, social,
political and class division, but a family nonetheless. We're
frivolous, yes, capable of expending
tremendous emotional energy on pop cultural minutiae -- a singer's
revealing dress, a ball team's
misfortune, a cartoon mouse. We're wealthy, too, spoiled by the
ready availability of trinkets and material
goods, and maybe because of that, we walk through life with a
certain sense of blithe entitlement. We are
fundamentally decent, though -- peace-loving and compassionate.
We struggle to know the right thing and
to do it. And we are, the overwhelming majority of us, people of
faith, believers in a just and loving God.

Some people -- you, perhaps -- think that any or all of this makes
us weak. You're mistaken. We are not
weak. Indeed, we are strong in ways that cannot be measured by
arsenals.

IN PAIN - Yes, we're in pain now. We are in mourning and we are
in shock. We're still grappling with the
unreality of the awful thing you did, still working to make
ourselves understand that this isn't a special
effect from some Hollywood blockbuster, isn't the plot
development from a Tom Clancy novel. Both in
terms of the awful scope of their ambition and the probable final
death toll, your attacks are likely to go
down as the worst acts of terrorism in the history of the United
States and, probably, the history of the
world. You've bloodied us as we have never been bloodied
before.

But there's a gulf of difference between making us bloody and
making us fall. This is the lesson Japan was
taught to its bitter sorrow the last time anyone hit us this hard, the
last time anyone brought us such
abrupt and monumental pain. When roused, we are righteous in
our outrage, terrible in our force. When
provoked by this level of barbarism, we will bear any suffering,
13
pay any cost, go to any length, in the
pursuit of justice.

I tell you this without fear of contradiction. I know my people, as
you, I think, do not. What I know
reassures me. It also causes me to tremble with dread of the
future.

In the days to come, there will be recrimination and accusation,
fingers pointing to determine whose
failure allowed this to happen and what can be done to prevent it
from happening again. There will be
heightened security, misguided talk of revoking basic freedoms.
We'll go forward from this moment
sobered, chastened, sad. But determined, too. Unimaginably
determined.

THE STEEL IN US - You see, the steel in us is not always readily
apparent. That aspect of our
character is seldom understood by people who don't know us well.
On this day, the family's bickering is
put on hold.

As Americans we will weep, as Americans we will mourn, and as
Americans, we will rise in defense of all
that we cherish.

So I ask again: What was it you hoped to teach us? It occurs to me
that maybe you just wanted us to know
the depths of your hatred. If that's the case, consider the message
received. And take this message in
exchange: You don't know my people. You don't know what we're
capable of. You don't know what you just
started.

But you're about to learn.
14
Quotes from "Global Development Briefing"
received September 13, 2001
"I sat and held my boy's hand. How would I explain it [the terrorist
attacks] to him? I said to his nanny 'Come, we must watch this'.
My little okie had his fire engine out and there was just nothing I
could say...when I woke up with my family this morning I felt as if
my whole soul had been shaken."
Harry Hofmeyr, resident of Cape Town province, South Africa
"I told myself that this is a strike from God, and it showed that
there are some forces stronger than the Americans in this world...I
felt that there had been a change in the balance within the world."
Mahmoud Abdullah, resident of the West Bank
"To the citizens of America. This cold-blooded act of mass murder
was meant to bring you to your knees. But stand tall my friends,
the people of the free world will strengthen your battlements. We
will stand by you shoulder to shoulder. United, we will go get the
murderingbastard."
Unidentified woman, resident of southern Ireland
"How could it be true? It seems like something out of Hollywood,
but the reality is much worse. It is impossible to think that
someone actually acted in such a barbaric and irrational way,
sacrificing so many lives, and that someone is celebrating, happy
at seeing such a despicable thing." Juan Castill,
A resident of San Jose, Costa Rica

!!
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
15
!!! !I write a column for The
Weekender in Sioux City. . . . I needed to write this one for me.
!!
Soul!Searching
By Mike Palecek
September 15, 2001

It should not have to be said that the bombing of the World Trade
Center and the Pentagon was evil. It is never ever right to kill. But
we must ask what kind of suffering must a person go through in
one's lifetime to make them capable of committing such an insane
act?

There really is no violence like a quiet neighborhood street when
children in other parts of the world are dying for lack of life's basic
necessities.

We saw the reality of the rest of the world coming right at us on
our television sets.

And when the violence hit home it jarred.

What if it were my child suffering and the world was paying no
attention? What would I be capable of doing? Plenty, I'm afraid.

These people, whoever they are, do not have a wickedness gene.
They are just like us, minus the running water and three car
garages.
16
About ten years ago I was working for a weekly newspaper in the
Sandhills of Nebraska. The Gulf War happened and I wrote a
column saying I did not support the war. That was when yellow
ribbons were our national ornament.

There were parades and cheering for the troops as the mothers and
fathers of Baghdad carried their dead children home in their arms.

There were also parades in New York City while rotting corpses
filled the wracked streets of Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

This time there were parades elsewhere and the dying was done by
us, and we got an idea of how terrible it all is.

THIS is not right. THAT was not right. People should not be
killing people. There is no good war. There never was.

Some say we should "take care of business." As I write this we
have not hit back, but there is much talk of it, an inevitability that
we will send our own terrorists in F-16s to kill other men, women
and children to avenge our own.

A more grown-up response would be to really take care of
business: correct the injustice in the world, the poverty, the lack of
health care, housing, food. Dont push people to the breaking point
and then act surprised when they reach a morning where they feel
they have no other choice but desperate acts.

We seem to have no real leaders. Our media mouthpieces act as if
they take a second paycheck from the military. Our governmental
leaders take their cues from what they hear on television, and the
people on the street seem to just want someone else to die in order
to be able to relax.

Payback is a ... sin.
What goes around comes around.

How many times have we heard of Palestinians killing Israelis
who then kill more Palestinians. That dog don't hunt. Why? No
time. Because there is no end to that dog chasing its own tail.
17
We know it is wrong to kill and yet we pay our taxes to supply
dollars to American weapons manufacturers who sell guns and
bullets that kill children and others. We know it is wrong to kill
and yet our ministers and priests say nothing about the dying until
the dead are stacked in boxes in their own sanctuaries. . . .
Now is the time for all good men to come to the aid of their
country. And what is needed is something other than
warmongering sloganeering.

Last night I had the strangest dream I'd ever had before. I
dreamed the world had all agreed to put an end to war.

A kid's dream, perhaps a kid's song. But it is time we thought more
about kids: their dreams, their lives, their hopes. They are the
future.

There is time.
There is still a chance.
This is not Armageddon.
Yes, the world has changed dramatically. For Good or for Evil?
It's up to us to determine.

18
Selections shared by Ami Dar, director of
Idealist.org shared September 16, 2001
Dear friends,
Over 1,000 people from all over the world have responded to the
short message we sent you on Tuesday night. Right now we can't
get back to each of you, but your messages were so moving that
we wanted to share some of them with all of you. You'll find them
at http://www.idealist.org/response.html
In addition, I wanted to take a moment to share a personal story
with you.
Twenty years ago, as a young paratrooper in the Israeli army, I
spent a long time on the Lebanese and Syrian borders, watching
the Arab soldiers watching me over the barbed wire.
As I looked at them day after day, it occurred to me that just as
every unit in the Israeli army has 'good guys' who will give you
their last pair of dry socks if you need it, and others who might
steal yours if they can, so every unit on the Arab side must also
have its share of people you would want to be with, and those you
would rather avoid.
I was only 19 then, with lots of time on my hands, so once this
thought hit me I couldn't help taking it a step further and thinking,
"If we HAVE to fight, wouldn't it make more sense for the good
guys on both sides to get together against the others...?"
Which didn't happen, of course. Instead, I spent five months in and
around Beirut during the war of 1982, seeing what human beings
can do to one another when they set their minds to it, and realizing
19
that the line between good and bad runs and zigzags through each
of us.
Still, this impulse to reach out across borders stayed with me, and
years later it led to the creation of Idealist.org, where every day
makes me more hopeful about what all of us can do together.
This is just one person's story, but so many of us have been
brought up to see other people as 'them' first, and as human beings
only later, if at all, that this seemed like a good time to tell it.
Regardless of what each of us thinks should happen now, there is
little doubt that in the next few weeks we'll see more violence. The
challenge will be to not let this paralyze us, and to continue
believing and doing what we do every day, only more so.
20
The World Sends Their Love and Support

Shared by Kara Maestro of SearchHound Sept. 17, 2001
It's only been a few days since the terrible tragedy here in the
United States and I have been flooded with emails expressing
shock , horror, anger, sympathy and an incredible amount of
love and support from SearchHound's worldwide community.
I thought it was important to share their beautiful expressions. I
ask that you please share this Web page with your friends as proof
that the damage and hurt caused by these terrorists spans much
further than the US. The world has been effected and is not only in
support of the United States, but the liberty, freedom and
democracy that we stand for.
I invite you to read just a sampling of the beautiful sentiments sent
to all of us from our brethren around the world.
AUSTRALIA
The tragic events in America have shocked all of us. All of
Australia is sad and angry about the massive loss of human life.
The most important thing will be for all of us from the free world
to maintain our way of life and continue to express our freedoms,
whilst finding the cowards. ~ Beat
I . . . have been following the events as they unfold on our TV here
in Australia. The general consensus here is almost identical to
21
what we have been shown on the TV, disbelief, horror, shock,
anger and the list goes on. ~ Ian
My thoughts go out to the whole of America. We have been glued
to the television for the last three days. We have been horrified not
only by the events in New York but by our local Palestinian
immigrants who have been laughing and cheering in the streets.
We hope our Prime Minister, Mr. Howard, will screen the Tampa
refugees extremely carefully before allowing any of them into the
country. ~ Diana
Dear friends in America I live in Cairns, Australia - a beautiful
place where tourism is our main industry. Visitors from America
total over one hundred thousand people annually and our tourism
representatives have built up strong personal relationships with
many friends and associates in your country. We are deeply
shocked at what has happened and our peoples share your grief.
My children, aged 7 & 10, and I have prayed every day for the
survivors, the victims, the workers, the volunteers, the police, the
fireman, the politicians - and for peace in the world at this tragic
time. God bless America and all its people. ~ Les
All of us here in Sydney Australia are appalled by what has
happened. ~ Sandra
God Bless America, from all of us here at Aussie Weld Port,
Macquarie, Australia. Our thoughts are with you.
Australians would like to extend their deepest sympathy to all
Americans at this time of sorrow regards ~ Merv
I have been watching for 3 days now. Unbelievable tragedy and
maliciousness. We are in Tasmania and feel safe but it seems
people are not safe anywhere. Good luck. I know the spirit to get
over it is there but we share your sadness and hope for the
survivors. ~ Laurie
To the People of the United States of America Please accept our
sincere condolences on the tragic happenings in New York and
Washington yesterday. I cannot express in words the impact that
22
this has had on not only yourselves but also the whole world, and
we will never forget the horror of the day. We can only hope that
in some way that this monstrous action, will bring all the countries
of the world together as never before, and that from this evil, some
good will come. God bless you all. ~ Christopher
BELGIUM
I'm shocked. Further to those tragic events, I'm very shocked that
anyone can do that. We are in the 3rd millennium and if we would
not lost all that we have built we have to support all the people that
the terrorism have injure. We have to support the liberty and the
democracy. ~ Christophe
We remember what America did for usWe recover liberty after
World War IIWe receive the moon as a gift to all human kind
Why is the price for such gifts so huge ?Sorry for human kind ...
God bless you all. ~ Jean-Michel
BULGARIA
I am Denyo from Bulgarian metal casting site Casting Area
www.castingarea.com Today Bulgaria is in national mourning. All
we in deep sorrow.
CANADA
Living in Alberta, Canada, we are quite remote from the disaster
in New York but, never the less, feel the pain that most of our
fellow Americans must feel when our basic freedoms are attacked
by these radicals. The U.S. government and its' citizens have been
very kind to my family and accepted us as their own in our many
travels south of the border. We hope that these radicals are brought
to justice very soon and we will do anything to help! God bless
America! ~ Adrian
WE AS CANADIANS WOULD LIKE TO OFFER OUR SYMPATHY
TO ALL THAT WERE AFFECTED BY THIS TERRIBLE ACT OF
WAR. YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS.
23
Though we our lives are miles away, our heartfelt thoughts are
with those who lives have had a direct impact to this horrible
tragedy. I will, with many other British Columbians & Canadians
take 3 minutes at 9:20 to pray for all and hopefully those in need
will feel the support from a world in mourning. ~ Nina
FIJI
Our thoughts are prayers are with the actual victims that suffered
pain or death....but the world with decent humans too are victims;
to those decent people out there, revenge will just cause this event
to further explode. Patience and planning to eradicate totally is
what is required.
FRANCE
I send you my thoughts and condolences to the victims, families
and to everyone who has been affected by this horrific and
catastrophic act of terror. ~ Jean-Claude
I'm not a very important person, just a French man who thinks to
all victims of the tragic events... and my heart is near you. God
bless my friends. ~ Yves
Following the attacks, I sincerely address my support for you in
the test that you traversez. No one remembers that you saved us in
1945 and supported financially aprs. These attacks touched you
in your flesh and your heart and they touched and horrified us,
because by the action of the terrorists, they call into question our
Western way of life. Aujord' today our heart is American and it
will be it for always. Tomorrow will be to us with you to answer
effectively against this armed with terrorist insane dogs, which
threatens all humanity. Tomorrow the good will triumph over the
evil, tomorrow justice will radiate on the world. ~ Laurent
From France, my heart and soul are broken! My spirit is fully with
all Americans and people looking for smart retaliation. Never
again! ~ Dimitri
24
Condolences to the victims, and families, and the American
people. ~ Daniel
On Friday, 14/09/2001 is national day of mourning in France as in
Europe. We shall respect 3 minutes of silence, at 12.00 for all the
victims of this horrifying disaster. Please, be assured of our
supports which regrettably not maybe that Morale. Good luck in
all. ~ X.Bernet
I'm French and even sometimes I'm not always with the
Americans. Today like all French people Im an American,
because we can't accept this acts against innocent people and we
need all together (freedom world) says no. All my thought for
victims and family. ~ Eric
I send my solidarity, my support, my compassion concerning the
CRUEL events that you have undergone Tuesday 11/09/2001. I
wish that the whole world reflects has what arrived. Made so that
nobody is excluded from the evolution necessary of the world in
the field of freedoms and the technological development. ANY
HEART WITH YOU GUY
We are evidently with us in this terrible catastrophe and all French
respect today 3 minutes of silence in memory for all innocents
victims. ~ MARIE
We understand and sympathize with this misfortune for humanity
all entire as I am Jewish I am of any heart with the people
American , the people of freedom. I wish to send our deepest
condolences and heartfelt sympathy to the American people,
President Bush and the entire United States government, following
the terrorist attacks against the United States and against our
common values. God to bless America. Amen. ~ Gilbert
We have been affected by this horrific and catastrophic act of
terror in USA. We want to show our support to the American
community. GOD save AMERICA! ~ Etienne
25
Even in times of tragedy, life has to go on for most of us. My
prayers are with all those personally affected by the disaster in the
US. ~ Encheres
GERMANY
The cowardly impact on the WTC and the pentagon in the USA
not only the American people met all humans, who believe in
peaceful living together of all nations (still) on the deepest, but.
According to these terrible pictures my thoughts are with the
victims, those their life so senselessly lost and their members. My
deepest sympathy applies to them. There my daughter for the
moment as a outer pair in the states is, particularly thinks I many
about the future. I pray for the fact that the politicians concern
deliberated and all a Third World War remains saved for us. We
all are frightened over the incomprehensible cruelty of humans,
who have this on the conscience. Hopefully they can be supplied
to their fair punishment. ~ Martina
The whole nation of Germany is shocked by this terrible attack to
the heart of America and the western civilization. We can't find
words about this what we feel inside our hearts and souls. There
aren't words, which can express the sadness and at the same time
the angry about these terrorists, which has done the unbelievable.
Our thoughts are by the victims and their families, but also by the
government, which get whole support for the attack to these
terrorists from the German Government and citizens.
Through the German people love the peace, we are almost for
100% the meaning that such creatures have to be destroyed,
because for such "animals" are no longer place on our earth. I
know it sounds terrible, but we must fight together against the
evil! And the fight has just begun. ~ Frank
The Northlight Vanner was terribly upset to hear of the cruel and
cowardly assassinations to Manhattan, Washington and in
Pennsylvania. In this tragic situation we want to send all our
deepest sympathy and declare our solidarity with you people of the
United States. ~ Johannes
26
I really hope that you can achieve appropriate measurements, that
never again a civil engine is used for terroristic attack! Best
wishes. ~ Tony
We are deeply shocked by what happened. Everybody I know here
in Germany feels dismayed and feels deep grief with the victims
and their families. We cannot believe what we have seen and even
not that the assassins lived also among us, in Hamburg and who
knows where. Our world is not the same as it used to be. Be sure
that we feel ourselves near beside the American people and will
give you any support we can. In silent grief. ~ Christian
In these tragic days, I want to express my deep regret and sadness
about the cruel and atrocious assassinations to Manhattan,
Washington and in Pennsylvania. I grieve for the victims of the
disaster and want to let you know, that my hopes and prays are
with you. ~ Johannes,
My sympathy for all peoples of America. I hope it isnt the start
for the last big war of our world. But I will also see and listen that
the murderer and spirit father became the juristic punishment for
all time. ~ Detlef
The team of ART office, Germany, extend our thoughts and
condolences to the families and to everyone who has been affected
by this horrific and catastrophic act of terror. So many people have
lost their wifes and husbands, sons and daughters, brothers and
sisters, parents and friends, the people they loved and they lived
for. We hope - and actually we are convinced - that civilization
will be closer than ever, shoulder by shoulder, to cut the roots of
any kind of ideologies of barbarism. Our questions, our problems
to solve should be different. We must overcome ideologies of
brutality to successfully master the challenges of the new
millennium. ~ Denis
Our resources are limited and we are far away from NY here in
Berlin but if I can be of any assistance please let me know. Our
thoughts are with the victims and with their families, friends and
companies. ~ Stefan (CEO)
27
All members of our company like to condolence all families who
lost part of its families caust be the terror acts in New Your and
Washington. To all persons who are hurt, we wish fast recovering.
Its good to the solidarity all over the world. Now should be the
time to support all people in Israel and Palestinian who really want
peace. Only peace in this region will help to paralyze the terrorists
in this part of world. ~ H. Buschkhl
Thank You for (your newsletter -Howl), we pray for the victims
and the US . We stand to You in Germany! ~ Vitulus
I'm in deep grief und still shocked. And I still cant believe what
has happened. It's still a nightmare for me as the film "The Day
After". I mourn with the families who lost friends, their mother,
father. daughter, son...And Im very afraid when I watch in TV,
what the American government plans to do now. I fight for
nonviolence! ~ Ellen
Being ever since an admirer and good friend of the people of the
USA I feel very sorry about the disaster which has hit so many
innocent people. I hope that those responsible for that crime will
be brought to the court and be punished soon. Germans are
shocked and the official Germany has half-mast flagged all over
the country and in many churches people are praying for the
victims and their loved one's. I felt that I had to write this to you. ~
Alfred
HOLLAND
In respect to the victims of the terrorist attacks on the World Trade
Center in New York this morning I invite you to take some time
today to reflect upon those things that we all too often take for
granted. Hopefully Your U.S. President will take swift and
APPROPRIATE action reflective of the mood of the country and
well intentioned people everywhere. God Bless. ~ Rudie
INDIA
We are with the people of USA We at PAN Network are pained
and shocked seeing the misery of our brothers and sisters of USA,
28
We are a small Indian firm working in the areas of Geographic
Information Systems. With our meagre resource and large heart
ready to do anything and feel ourselves grateful. ~ Sujit
IRELAND
As someone who has lived through 30 years of terrorist atrocities
in our small town of Belfast, including being awakened every
night to the sound of bombs, seeing young students being shot
dead beside me, and having my own business premises bombed
twice, I thought that I had witnessed the worst that could happen
but I, along with everybody in this community have been stunned
by the devastation in New York. We have just had a 3 minute
silence which has been orchestrated throughout Europe for the
victims and their families. We are also very aware that revenge
tactics are not the best way forward and that every negotiating
tactic possible should be explored to weed the perpetrators out of
global society. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those who
have lost their nearest and dearest. There but for the grace of God
go I! ~ Evelyn
ISRAEL
Here in Israel we understand and share your shock and grief in a
unique way. We are now forever bonded as victims of Islamic
terror - the scourge of the 21st Century. We are united, not only in
bereavement, but in the fighting spirit to surmount the assault on
our life and liberty, and the ability to defend our values and
democracy against an evil that would drive us back to the Middle
Ages. ~ Barry
ITALY
Everybody are crying in Italy. Our thoughts for USA brothers. ~
Claudio
We are near you in this difficult moment !!! Italian community. ~
Marco

29
NETHERLANDS
DEEPEST REGRETS from the Netherlands We don't
understand, our children don't understand and we feel pain. Please
do not lower yourselves to the level of the terrorists but we in
Europe agree that the whole democratic world must act. We feel
like we were also attacked and we will support you. With love. ~
Carin
We think all day long how terrible things are in the USA. We
watch TV and hope and pray that some day there will be better
times. The grief and sorrow will go on for a long time, here in the
Netherlands all people will do anything to help. ~ Ardy
NEW ZEALAND
This is a horrific act of terrorism by an extremely radical group.
Scheming, destructive, uncaring and evil are words that come to
mind. ~ Julie
Our thoughts are with you this week. Words cannot show how we
are feeling, but I hope that it will be a slow and painful death to
the ones that did this and also to the ones that support these
cowards. You are not alone. ~ Greg
We are an adult education organization in New Zealand. Because
we have a large English Second Language program, we have
people from all walks of life and from all parts of the world
including Muslim people from Iraq and Afghanistan. We have
joined together in this email, to share our grief for the people of
New York and to condemn the terrorists who did this abominable
thing. No cause justifies this end! ~ ECEP
NORWAY
Sitting in Norway, watching the news, it gives me a feeling there
are no words to be said, to cover the tragedy that has happened.
There is no way I can imagine how people is feeling in USA now,
not to mention the people who has lost their dare ones and friends,
colleges and relatives...
30
My honest and sincere condolences to them all to you all. I only
hope that everybody finds one way or another to cope with the
sorrow. There are just are no words... ~ Berit H.
NOVA SCOTIA
I never found myself so close to the US as I have this week. To me
it was just the Country beside mine. I now feel such sadness that I
now feel that the US is part of my world not just another Country.
Living in Nova Scotia and just a few minutes away from where the
passengers from the landed planes at our airport made me realize
how many people were lost and how many are now filled with
grief. I pray for all who have lost someone and for all of those
affected by this horrible event. ~ Christine
SARAJEVO
My sympathy to everybody in USA. ~ Amir from Sarajevo
SPAIN
As Director of Studio www.architecturalmodel.net I wish to
express our support to all Americans, In Spain we feel deeply
touched and horrified by these barbarous acts that so frequently hit
our country as well. The general feeling is that this act also was
addressed against us. ~ Marcelo
We are only one people on Earth. America, Europe and everyone
who believe in the principles of liberty and Human Rights will
overcome the nonsense of terror. Just a few words from Barcelona
to give our American brothers all our support. Thank you for being
so strong!. Liberty and Justice won't be defeated, not in this
century. The world is with you. You're not alone. ~ Josep
SWEDEN
Dear friends in U.S. I just want you to know, that we in Sweden
are with you in thoughts and prayers, after the terror attack in U.S.
We would like to express our deepest sympathies to the families
and friends of those lost in yesterday's tragic events. Please join us
31
in expressing thoughts and prayers for everyone affected by this
tragedy. ~ Joachim
TURKEY
Human history is already full of shame and sorrow. The people
who did this wanted to kill as many people as possible. How can
this happen??? Hate and protest all kind of terrorism. I feel very
sad for the people and friends who have lost someone. ~ Serap
UNITED KINGDON
To all of the People of America May one of your greatest
strengths be your determination and resolve to get through this,
rebuild your lives and carry on. You are The Greatest of Nations
and the world will always look to you, follow your examples and
know that you are the icons of Freedom, Compassion and Justice.
We will always remember this tragic day, but the world will one
day remember much more how after the blackness of the night,
you rose at first light to even greater heights from the smoldering
ash, to take the hand of the world once more and lead the way to a
civilized existence. My thoughts are with you. ~ Kevin
You and your fellow countrymen are to be commended by putting
on a brave face, in event of the disaster befallen you. As the full
horror unfolded on our television set, I sat dumbstruck and felt
inadequate knowing there was nothing I personally could do to
help. here in Scotland there are a lot of organizations conducting
services of condolence and the American Ambassador attended the
Scottish parliament. The aftermath is that a lot of American /
Canadian Tourist are now stranded and one girl said her credit had
run out on her phone which prompted me to send a message to the
Consolate here in Scotland, and hope someone takes up my offer
of any Tourist in the area of Carstairs Village Scotland can use my
home computer to mail friends and relatives, At these time I do
not have the right words to say but I hope that the content of my
Email will help someone to feel and they are not alone. My door is
always OPEN. My thoughts are with you all. ~ Robert
32
I have been searching for some way to pass on the feelings of
ordinary British people and maybe in some small way I can do this
through your community. Through the strong ties of history and
language we feel closer to the American people than ever before -
your tragedy is our tragedy, your pain is our pain. Hold tight to
courage and hope through these dark days and may you rise
stronger in the knowledge that you have constant committed
friends across the ocean forever. We will pray for you during the
three-minute silence we are observing today 14th September at
1100 BST. God bless you all. ~ Andrew
We can only imagine the pain and suffering of the families of
those who are so devastated by this horrendous and despicable
crime - and of all the people of America. May God help you come
to terms with this terrible loss and unite the world in rooting out its
perpetrators, and those who shelter them, to bring them to justice.
Our thoughts here in the UK are with you. I don't think anyone can
start to describe the horror they felt watching the tragic events of
Tuesday. It is very hard to believe that one human being could
inflict such pain and suffering on another. My thoughts and
prayers are with each and every person and family who are so
inconsolable during these desolate times. May they rest assured
that no one will ever forget. ~ Lisa D.
The European Parliament has called for 3 minutes silence at 11:00
GMT 14.09.01. 12:00 CET Owing to the horrific events that took
place in America on Tuesday 11th September, we will be
observing a three minute silence at 11 am on Friday 14th
September to reflect on the tragic and outrageous terrorist attacks.
We support this and invite you to join us. Best regards. ~ John
To all my friends in the US, a sad day for mankind and in
particular for all those that lost loved ones. ~ Brian
We support any action that the US deems necessary to eradicate
the people who carry out these terrible attacks.
Regards. ~ Andrew & Di
God bless you all. We in the UK are grieving with you. We will
always be friends of the USA.~ Alan C. and family
33
Hello Howl How do I begin. I would imagine the whole of
Britain will concur when I offer my deepest sympathy to everyone
suffering after Tuesdays events. What a tragic loss and a terrible
waste of life. Yours with sincere wishes. ~ Stuart
May I extend my own and my families deepest condolences to all
the families in the USA where things have occurred that are
beyond reason and therefore extremely difficult to cope with.
Neither my family nor me can fully believe the shocking and
strange events that unfolded last Tuesday, and continue to unfold.
It seems Britain has lost a number of souls in these travesties of
justice, yet I feel no difference in my feelings for whoever lost
their lives - it was a grotesque and mindless act reeked upon
innocent, unsuspecting victims.
My love to all who reads this email with the sincere wish that they
find the strength and courage to carry their lives to a higher plain
in the knowledge that it is from the very basest depth of human
nature that has created this dreadful loss and pain. I believe that
the evil mind that conceived and no doubt financed the horror in
question has no real interest in the religious zealots that were the
suicidal instruments of death and that it is important that the West
avoid inflicting punishment on 3rd world nations already in
turmoil, when individuals are at the real root of this evil. With
love. ~ Lynn Mother of three
WHAT CAN I SAY MY THOUGHTS GO OUT TO THE
AMERICAN PEOPLE AT THIS TIME. ~ Peter from the London
Town Crier
Theres little anyone can say to ease the pain of bereavement for
the families caught up in this dreadful tragedy. I hope that
knowing that people worldwide are thinking of you and wishing
you strength will be at least some small comfort. Condolences. ~
Steve

Hi, I would like to send my heartfelt condolences to all American
people we are thinking of you all the time and wish you great
strength from Brian. ~ Evans and family England
34
It is very difficult to know what to say, but we stand together in
condemnation of this attack on innocent people and democracy.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to all America and to all those
affected by this terrible tragedy. God bless you all. ~ Philip
After the tragic events of the last few days as a British citizen I
would like to offer my condolences to all American citizens. From
the reaction in this small northern British town I know the British
people are feeling this as you are, and will be behind America
110% in the coming weeks and years. ~ Andrew
We are just ordinary farming people living in England, and would
like all of you over in America to know that our thoughts are with
you at this awful time. It is difficult to comprehend what you must
all be going through and we feel so helpless. All we can do is say
our prayers are with you, we hope and pray that more survivors
are found quickly and we will think of you all. ~ Ellie
Sitwell Estates (Renishaw Hall) would like to send condolences to
the victims, families and to everyone who has been Effected by the
recent events in the United States. It has shocked every one and so
we do need at this time a hands across the sea to let our friends
know we are thinking of them. It has affected our local community
here in Derbyshire and in the Sheffield area, because friends of
friends are in the States and where near the area when this tragedy
happened , our thoughts go out to them and there families and
friends. Kind regards from the staff at Renishaw Hall in the county
of Derbyshire in the United Kingdom
May justice be done. Words will never put across how sorry we
fell for these people. May god help them at this time, we will pray
that these people behind this is what has happen will pay the price
for what they did. God bless plus help these people in time of
need. ~ William
Deeply sorry to hear of the tragic disaster caused by those who
have no respect for life. You all have my thoughts. Justice must be
done, they must be made to pay for their action. ~ John
35
This is an invitation to join together to form as wide a prayer circle
as possible, holding and supporting all affected and touched by the
destruction of life today in the United States.
We invite you, at any time you think of it, but particularly on the
hour each hour, to hold **all** touched by these events in your
thoughts and your hearts - those killed, injured or harmed in any
way, their families and friends, governments and leaders across
the world as they prepare to respond, those who carried out these
attacks, those who might be tempted to carry out such attacks,
those who feel they nothing left to lose, those who wish to
retaliate, and any and all people who feel fear, anger or despair in
the face of these events, including ourselves. We invite you to join
with us in praying for love, compassion and sanity to arise in
minds and hearts throughout the world, knowing that we do so
together. "May I hold the centre as I reflect eternal truth."
with much love to all who receive this.~ Joanna & Elinor
To the Global Community Our thoughts and prayers go out to all
those afflicted by this senseless act of terror. We hope for a calm
and focused reaction that will ensure that events of this nature are
never again repeated anywhere. Furthermore, we hope the despair
and anguish felt by all sufferers passes quickly. ~ Nick
OTHER COUNTRIES
My family and myself have always been made to feel welcome in
the USA. We have always found the American people to be kind,
courteous and warm. We would all like to offer our deepest
condolences to all American people, especially those with loved
ones lost and/or unaccounted for and indeed all people whatever
nationality (apart of course from the terrorists, who with a bit of
luck are now burning in hell). Who have been affected by this
terrible event our deepest and most sincere condolences. GOD
BLESS ~ Jason
I can not speak very much English but you can count on all my
sympathy and love for all of you. ~ Michel Peace and sympathy to
all America, GOD be with all
36
Courtesy an Unidentified Newsletter September 17, 2001
"When I despair, I remember that all through history the way
of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants
and murderers and for a time they seem invincible but in the
end, they always fall -- Think of it, ALWAYS." Mahatma
Gandhi


WHAT YOU CAN DO TO HELP
Today is -- or promises to be -- a global "get-back-to-work" day.
Americans, our allies and even (I imagine) our enemies have been
in a state of shock and bewilderment, anger and anticipation. Some
of us have stopped working. Others have worked distractedly.
Very few -- I'd like to think -- have been able to ignore what is
happening and work with any kind of focus and care.
Yet, for most of us, our work requires focus and care. And today,
with schools reopening, the bond markets working, and the New
York Stock Exchange due to resume trading, it feels like it's time
to "get back to normal."
Of course, that will be impossible. We are on the verge of a major
war -- perhaps a world war. More importantly, the entire world has
suddenly become vulnerable and dangerous. Only the most naive
person could convince himself that terrorism will subside or that
any action less than a third world war would get rid of its threat.
On the one hand, we are facing a world where bombings,
biochemical warfare, and portable nuclear bombs will threaten the
lives of large populations. On the other hand, we are looking at the
horror of a real war -- where everything that an evil mind can
imagine happens, where tens of thousands or hundreds of
37
thousands of American men and women -- and countless others
from other nations -- will die in terror and hate.
There will be a normal -- but it will be significantly different from
the normal we have known. And it will feel especially abnormal to
anyone young enough not have lived through Vietnam.
How things will change depends on what Bush decides to do.
There's almost no point in speculating. We'll know soon enough.
What we can do today -- what I recommend you do -- is to take
this terrible opportunity to make yourself a stronger, wiser, more
directed person.
We are going back to work today because we must. We have jobs
to do, bills to pay, family members to care for. Yet if we allow the
terrible events of this time to derail our productivity any longer,
our country is going to become weaker -- one day and one person
at a time.
Don't believe that oft-heard myth about war being good for the
economy. It is not. When something of value is destroyed -- and
this includes everything from material objects to human life -- the
world is less for it.
What we lost last Tuesday will never be recovered. Those
buildings -- those computers, those desks, those chairs -- the
hundreds of millions of dollars worth of things that disappeared
that day -- will never be recovered. Those individual people --
those brokers and secretaries and firemen and policemen -- will
never be recovered.
Like terrorism, war is destructive. It is evil and destructive. Yet at
times like these, it seems necessary. And perhaps it is.
Tuesday's destruction and all we do in response to it will be
horrendously costly.
You can't make that cost go away. But you can do something
about it.
38
You can become better, stronger, and wiser. You can provide
more value. By working smarter and harder and thus producing
more value, you play a vital role in replacing what is lost and what
will be lost in the future.
By making yourself stronger and smarter and wiser, you can
influence those around you to be -- and this will have untold
beneficial effect on the rest of the world. Like a pebble dropped in
a still pond, the energy and compassion and thoughtfulness you
bring to your work (all your work -- personal and business) will
ripple out toward the people who know you.
In times of crisis -- just before hell breaks loose -- there is a void.
It is the moment at which time seems to stand still. Everyone
stands silently, stupefied, waiting for something to happen,
someone to say something.
There will be some of that void still present today. It's time for you
to fill it up -- just a little, perhaps -- with the best that is you.
39


40

Section Two








Personal Reflections
41

42
Reflections


Reflecting on this exercise:
[Relating] quotes to readers feelings and applying the quote to
the time of the readers can teach a person a lot. Many people live
everyday by these quotes. A quote and an interpretation may save
or change a persons life.
Kallin Anderson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

I think if everybody was given a list of these quotes and actually
thought of them it would help with world peace greatly. The
quotes could also have a negative effect on peace though, if they
were taken the wrong way. All in all I liked writing about these
quotes because it taught me more about how people think about
peace.
Eric Foss, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

Reflecting On War

The relevance of history:
By studying the past and learning from others accomplishments
and mistakes, we can stop problems before they start. Perhaps
someday we will have world peace.
Michelle Pressly, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

In the Bible, one almost humorous example of surprise attacks is
the story of Gideon, a judge in ancient Israel. By Gods command,
Gideons army had been reduced to 300 men to fight an army of
well over 100,000 veteran Medanites and other nations allied with
them. In the night, Gideons forces surrounded the camp carrying
clay pots that concealed lit torches in one hand and a trumpet in
the other. Just after the guards changed, the Israelites broke their
clay pots revealing their torches, shouted, and blew their trumpets.
The Medanite army was utterly confused and in disarray. In their
confusion, many slew their comrades, giving Israel a victory only
explainable through Gods intervention.
Wesley Robinson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas
43
Another tragic loss to mankind as a whole is the destruction of
the Aztec and Mayan Indians. These savages, as they were then
called, possessed many different forms of technology that came to
the Europeans many years later. These Indians had technologies
such as indoor plumbing and a calendar that is far more accurate
than our current time and date system. As these peoples were
destroyed, so were their secrets. Arnold Toynbee once concluded,
History teaches us that when a barbarian race [the Europeans in
this case] confronts a sleeping culture [the Indians], the barbarian
always wins.
Lindsay Read, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Peace wasnt a feasible idea in ancient times. The Persian Wars
of 499 B.C. were fought because the Ionians werent happy with
their Persian rule. Greece joined forces with the Ionians, and they
revolted. The Persian King was so angered with the revolt that at
his evening prayer, he recited Lord, dont forget the Athenians.
The Persians and the Greeks engaged in several battles, such as the
battle of Marathon. At Marathon the Athenians tricked the
Persians and defeated them, killing six thousand four hundred
men. After Marathon, the Persians withdrew to Asia Minor but
soon came back to fight. The Athenians once again found the
Persians weakness and defeated them. This victory gave the
Ionians control of their land.
The Crusades were holy wars fought during the Middle Ages
over the city of Jerusalem. The Christians wanted to recover the
city because it was where Jesus was crucified. The Jews thought
that the city belonged to them because it was where the holy
temple was built. Muslims also regarded the city as holy because it
was where Muhammad ascended into heaven. In the A.D. one
thousands a Muslim group took control of the city, and closed the
city to Jewish and Christian pilgrims. On a cold day in November
A.D. 1095, Pope Urban II called for a holy war. The first Crusade
resulted in the fall of Jerusalem and ended up killing most of its
Jewish and Muslim populations. This success greatly strengthened
the church but brought about even more hatred towards Christians.
Later the Muslims called for another Crusade and took control of
Jerusalem. Astonished by the event, the Crusade Kings tried to
regain the land but failed.
44
To this day the effects of the Crusades live on. On September
11, 2001, America, one of the most populous Christian and Jewish
nations, was attacked by Osama bin Laden and his followers. He
claimed his cause was for the sake of the Islamic religion. America
is still at war, seeking revenge on this man and his followers.
Ashley Johnson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

We have awakened a sleeping giant and have instilled in him a
terrible resolve, said Yamamoto. When cultures are unprepared
for attack, the attacker initiallywins the battle. Several accounts
of this theory, such as the attack on Pearl Harbor, the decline of
Rome, and the terrorist attack of September 11
th
have proven this
to be true.
History gives an example of this in the fall of Rome in the AD
200s. Rome had long become politically unstable. It all began
with a new Emperor, Commodus. The new emperor spent so
much of the state money on his own pleasures that he bankrupted
the treasury. Commoduss own troops schemed to kill him. From
then on, 28 new emperors were installed, only to kill most of
them off in rapid succession. They became busier fighting each
other than they were defending the empire's borders. The
Germanic tribes [used] this to their advantage and repeatedly and
successfully attacked the empire. The political instability led to
the economic decline of Rome. The war disrupted the production
and trade of the empire. It also ruined the farmland, which caused
food shortages and sent food prices soaring. To try and help with
the soaring prices, the government produced more coins, hoping
this action would make it easier to pay its soldiers. Inflation
resulted and taxes went up to try and sustain a fighting force.
The government made unsuccessful attempts to save the empire.
When the empire had reached the point where there was nothing
that could be done, invaders over took Rome and it fell into
decline.
Danielle LeBlanc, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Examining a few of historys wars--World War 1, World War II,
the Persian Gulf War, and the present war on terrorism  one
finds that most of the wars have been started by authoritative,
dictatorial leaders, who rally their support by false promises and
propaganda.
45
In 1905 before World War 1, Germanys Kaiser, urged people
to make war with Russia, saying the German people would greatly
benefit from it. In 1922 leading up to World War II, Benito
Mussolini, a Fascist dictator in Italy, persuaded the Italian people
to follow his militaristic totalitarian government, saying that it was
the best way to meet the peoples wants and needs. In the early
1930s Germanys Chancellor, Adolf Hitler, another strong
dictator, came to power as the depression hit Germanys citizens.
Forming the German National Socialist (Nazi) Party, Hitler
promised to make more room for the German people and to
override the Versailles Treaty. The Treaty of Versailles was a
treaty that was to stop and prevent all wars by decapitating all of
Germanys and its allies military might.
Victoria Worster, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Artillery was extremely useful in World War I when in 1914
Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia. Although the United
States had struggled to remain neutral during their problems, they
failed. On April 2, 1917, President Woodrow Wilson requested the
members of Congress declare war on Germany. Four days after
Wilsons message, Congress declared war on German forces by
margins of 82 votes to 6 in the Senate and 273 to 50 in the House.
Entering World War I raised artillery to a new level of importance
on the battlefield. About 3,010 guns of 26 calibers and 46 models
poured 74 types of ammunition into the Saint Mihiel salient for
four hours and forty-five minutes before Americans attacked
Germany. Altogether, 838,019 rounds of ammunition, high
explosive smoke, and non-persistent gas were expended in a single
battle. World War I also saw the development of new techniques
and devices, such as the chemical shell, massive and controlled
artillery barrages, and aerial observation. Artillery was the greatest
killer on the battlefield, inflicting 75 percent of casualties suffered
by the enemy.
Weapons once again proved valuable in World War II. On
Sunday, December 7, 1941, President Roosevelt received word
that the Japanese had bombed Pearl Harbor. Americans were quick
to retaliate. In doing so, there were numerous improvements in
weapon development. Germany invented the V-1, which was a
small aircraft launched by a catapult system and powered by a
pulsejet. On one-way missions, the bomber didnt need fuel or an
46
aircrew but its inability to carry out target identification reduced
its effectiveness. The V-2 ballistic missile overcame the
vulnerability problem of the V-1. Fuel was carried internally, and
the missile was fired to an unprecedented altitude of 40 miles
before descending towards its target. The high terminal velocity of
the V-2 reduced efficiency by burying the warhead too deeply
within the target. Another technological advancement, the jet
engine, offered increases in power, speed, and altitude through a
new power source. Instead of depending on a propeller, the new
aircraft ran on gas turbine, which allowed for greater
improvements in aerodynamics. The most destructive weapon
during World War II was the atomic bomb. In 1945, the worlds
first atom bomb was dropped by an American B-29 bomber on the
Japanese city of Hiroshima. About 90,000-140,000 people were
killed and more than 10 sq km/4 sq mi were demolished during the
atom bombs explosion. Days later another bomb was dropped in
Nagasaki, Japan, killing 60,000-80,000 people and ending World
War II.
During the Vietnam War, artillery heightened its development
further. On August 2 and 4, 1964, President Johnson reported that
North Vietnamese torpedo boats had fired on two American
destroyers in the Gulf of Tonkin. Calling these attacks
unprovoked, Johnson asked Congress for authorization to bomb
North Vietnam. On August 7, the Senate and House allowed the
President to take all necessary steps, including the use of armed
force to prevent further aggression. In the Vietnam War, the
helicopter became a prime mover for artillery, giving increased
mobility. Artillery units occupied fire support bases and could fire
360 degrees in support of operations. The ability of the artillery to
provide rapid and devastating fire support at critical times often
spelled the difference between victory and defeat.
Amber Kidd, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Ponder this:
War [is] wasted time, keeping our world from showing its actual
capability. [War hovers over] our worldlike a shadow.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

47
War: the countries of the world punishing each other with
weapons. Peace: the countries fighting with their intelligence, not
weapons. Is there ever really peace?
Sally Schauls, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

It can be difficult for citizens to accept the fact that they might
have to sacrifice their lives so that their government can gain more
power or land. On the other hand, others would give their lives to
obtain, or maintain, freedom of religion, freedom from
segregation, or extermination because of race. That is the reason
that war issues are so sensitive. The results of war are always
devastating. As expected, there is always geographical damage;
homes, businesses, and landscapes are common casualties.
Military personnel tend to suffer the greatest damage. Physical
wounds will heal. Emotional wounds tend to cut deeper and do not
always heal. Political leaders dont always realize the mental
anguish that their soldiers are in; battles are oversized mind
games. The emotional damage that can occur to a man can be
fatal. When men are drafted, one could say military personnel are
literally putting their lives in a leaders hand. Warfare can be
compared to a game of chess. Political leaders are the hands that
move the pieces. The soldiers are the pieces. The pieces have to do
as the hand commands.
Beth King, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

There will always be some war to be fought, and people need to
start accepting that fact.
Dustin Sievers, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

War does not save lives. War kills people. It is a simple concept
distant to many in favor of it. In an era where cures for diseases
are at humanitys fingertips and technology advances in leaps in
bounds, there must be another solution besides war.
Shanda R. Wells, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Intelligence could not bring peace between Osama bin Laden and
America, so there was no other choice than to fight back. If we
had known the attacks were going to take place, I do not think
even reasoning with bin Laden would have stopped it. We would
have had to use force to keep the attacks from happening.
48
Although there are a lot of people who think that intelligence is the
main factor in preserving peace, I think that even the most
intelligent people cannot stop war from happening.
Brett Anderson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Most people living in the world today have either participated in
a war or know someone that was in a war. Many of these people
also knew a person that was lost in a war. It is a sad reality that,
unless something out of this world happens, none of us will ever
live in a time of total peace. I think that we have all come to that
reality.
Dillon Zachara, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

The true war is within ourselves, not with each other. When we
are unhappy with ourselves, it is then that we fight amongst
religions, political groups, countries, and most often with different
ideas and cultures.
Annie Southerland, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

Wars are fought for religion, power, and wealth. Because bigotry
and greed seep down through the generations, wars rage for
centuries. Although the fire dies down, its embers smolder, and it
just takes the right person to kick up the embers and fuel the
inferno with money and innocent lives.
War affects not just the people directly involved, but people all
over the world. Wars create refugees, prisoners of war, combat
fatalities, mental trauma, civilian casualties, the breakup of
families, and the destruction of property and dreams. War can
cause economic changes in places seemingly unaffected by a war
fought thousands of miles away. The destructiveness of war has
grown to be so great that no one can afford to ignore foreign
conflicts.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

75,519,678. 31,192. 2,421. What do these numbers have in
common one may ask? Is there a proportional number by which
they have all been multiplied or divided? Are they important
numbers used to calculate the most in depth calculus and physics
equations? Or could they just be three numbers listed greatest to
least? They are none of the above. Total dead. Total days. Total
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dead per day. In just 31,192 days more then 75,519,678 people
died of war. These people did not just die of heart attacks or
something natural; these are actual war casualties. That is 2,421
deaths a day. The worst news is that is only taking eleven wars
into consideration from November 6, 1860 through September 2,
1945. If we began killing one person per second, it would take
874 days to take 75,519,678 lives. If that is the case, let's get
started.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

The act of war has been a recurring incident since the beginning
of time. What quality does war possess that has allowed it to
survive over such an extended period of time? Possibly it is the
only solution the human race is capable of producing. Because of
our individuality it is impossible for everyone to have compatible
views, and because we are unwilling to change compromise is
rare.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

After eight hours of uneventful flight, the view from the window
of a B-29 had changed from tranquil waters to a densely populated
landscape. Do we all agree that this is Hiroshima? asked the
young pilot. After a brief pause on each of the crew to ensure
their affirmation, his gaze traveled to the lighted green numbers on
the control board that gleamed 8:15:15 A.M. Two seconds later
the most catastrophic weapon in the history of human conflict
descended into infamy, ending the worlds largest chronicled war.
The legacy of this event was an unforgettable mushroom cloud
and the conviction that peace must be the theme of the future. But
has mankind finally reached the level of military destructiveness
that will prevent war, or will stubborn pride prevail over good
sense and the possibility of self-destruction?
Throughout history kings and nations believed that
commanding the most military strength would bring victory and
peace. In fact, the Roman Empires longevity was almost solely
dependent upon its Legions. In the ages since the fall of Rome,
nations have amassed weapons with the conviction that if they
were powerful, they would not be attacked. At the turn of the 19
th

century, most influential people of the world continued to uphold
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militarism.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

What could possibly be so terrible that would lead humans to kill
other humans? Four thousand four hundred and thirty-five lives
were lost in the Revolutionary War so our nation would be free.
We are still sending men and women down a dark road to
battlegrounds with little hope of survival, and our freedom is not at
risk. Take these large numbers of human lives that have been lost
and think about the children who grew up and the ones still
growing who dont have either a mother or a father. Human lives
arent only what are lost in war. Our country will lose billions of
dollars.This is money taken from the taxpayers pocket.
Damage to a nations economy is a very hurtful part of war.
Americas economy suffered greatly and a very important part of
one of our cities was lost in a recent attack on our country. In an
undeclared war on the United States, planes were crashed into
buildings in New York, causing 25-30 million square feet of
office space to be destroyed.
Shane Brewer, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Even though having well-organized armed forces is the best
preparation, no war at all is the safest and definitely the least
destructive solution. We should try to prevent war at all costs.
War causes damages that go beyond death and economic
problems. War leaves a scar. Understanding why we should be
prepared and why we should try to prevent war are the key to a
peaceful nation.
Brittany Gilley, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

War destroys the environment as well as humans, wildlife and
buildings:
War requires a lot of resources and the continuous fighting in the
world has begun to deplete the earths natural resources faster than
they can be replenished. The decades-long war in Cambodia for
example, was incredibly environmentally destructive. During this
war swaths of forests were cut down, leading to a thirty percent
drop in forest cover in only twenty years. Deforestation is but
one of the smaller scars the earth bears from wars it does not start
or fight. During the World Wars many types of chemicals were
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used. These chemicals poison forests, lakes, rivers, livestock, and
most importantly people. Many chemicals such as, chlorine,
mustard gas, and the invisible but ever deadly nuclear radiation
have lasting effects. Even in the years long after the fighting has
stopped, the earth continues to suffer and slowly die from these
chemicals. War has not only destroyed the environment, though.
War has destroyed innumerable priceless artifacts, buildings,
and technology as well. In medieval times families hid their
treasures underneath their castles in order to protect them. Still
that did not prevent many works of art from being destroyed.
Stalins rage destroyed the National Art Gallery, which held many
priceless paintings.
Lindsay Read, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Is war worth it?
War continuously surrounds us whether we realize it or not. We
are constantly confronted with wars against hunger, poverty,
abuse, and fear. As I have grown up and experienced both the Gulf
War and the September 11
th
tragedy, I understand that conquering
hate, terror, and dictators usually concludes in warfare. When I
was a freshman, the thought never occurred to me that in just three
short years there would be a possibility that some of my good
friends could be off in another country fighting for our
sovereignty. That thought is scary and sad, but we all have to
face it whether we want to or not. Freedom has its price and it
cannot and will not be compromised for anything.
Robin Long, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas


A bit of optimism:
We know that war is wrong, but yet even with all this knowledge
we still have war. Some people have been able to control their
primitive feelings. Knowledge and love have mastered their
underlying sense of evil. Even though we have these peaceful
people in this world, we still have war and hate because they are
few and the minority. By having knowledge and love we should
be able to become a peaceful race. Even though evil is rooted in
our souls, someday we will be able to have peace.
Jessica Youngs, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

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When you turn on your TV today and watch the news, one of the
first topics you will hear is war. There have been more speeches
made about wars than most other subjects. War is one of the first
recorded events in time, and it may continue on forever.
Although war seems to continue on forever, there always are
chances to stop it. With a compassionate heart and thoughtful
mind, we can end it forever. Many great people have experienced
war, firsthand, and do not sing its praises. Through their words, we
can understand our own power. Moreover, we can try indefinitely
to use their words of wisdom to pave a new century of peace and
understanding.
Andy Irwin, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

As long as mankind has been on this earth, there has never been a
time in history when the world, as a whole, has been completely at
peace. As one war comes to a close, another springs up in some
other part of the world. We have fought about religion, freedom,
pride, and many other causes thought worthy at the time. But, as
we think back, how many of these causes were worth losing
millions of human lives? It seems that violence is ingrained in the
human mind and is part of our psyche. It seems that there are
always people fighting over petty things, when it would be much
easier to let some things go. Pride seems to be a main factor in
many wars. Somewhere along the way, someone has to be the
bigger person and decide that enough is enough. After all, when
one country attacks another to prove a point and demolishes that
country, who is left to learn the lesson they set out to teach?
Stacey Jackson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Shades of Orson Wells?
In the moment in which all people begin to think alike, there will
be no more war. Can the earth wait that long?
Lindsay Read, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

As long as people are allowed to think for themselves, we will
always have conflict.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin



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Sara acknowledges the consequences:
If everyone could form the same opinion, would there ever be a
need to have a war? But then again, if everyone formed the same
opinions, what would make us individuals?
Sara Curry, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Reflecting on peace
For thousands of years mankind has struggled with the concept of
peace. To obtain peace, everyone must put asidedifferences,
cooperate, and think of the welfare of all parties. Peace takes hard
work, dedication, forgiveness, tolerance, and most of all, effort.
The whole world has seen the effects of war. Let the world finally
see the positive effects of peace. The rewards of peace would be
much more gratifying then of war.
Beth King, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

When I think of peace, I think of young children, standing at a
piata waiting for candy to be dropped on them. When I think of
peace, I think of millions of fortunate families and friends
enjoying a summer night, watching booming fireworks that
declares our nations freedoms. When I look at the world today,
I know that there will never be complete peace in the world. We
can always try to rid the world of the bad apples who make the rest
of the world go sour, but that is next to impossible. I would
think that peace would be easier [than war], but as nature would
have it, man always resorts to primitive ways. He believes that in
order to get what he wants, he must use force. Unfortunately, man
sometimes has trouble resolving problems in a mannerly fashion.
Hopefully, someday on Earth, peace will overflow the hearts of
everyone, and no one will feel the need to fight.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Peace is more thanan idea; it isa mindset and state of being.
Though [it] seems an impossible goal, true peace can be achieved
bycooperation. What exactly is peace? Many may consider it
to be simply the absence of war. By this definition, the Cold War
was peace; there was no true war but a stalemate between
Earths two military superpowers.
Rachel Mohr, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

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A novel idea:
Peace comes when the dominant nation uses its weapons to
impose peace.
Krista Hakeman, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Do Molly and Melissa Jo agree?
[I]f a war has to be fought to keep the peace, then it must be
done.
Molly Sievers, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

When it comes down to it, peace at any cost is the way to go.
Melissa Jo Waterland, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Peace is active communication:
One of the major reasons so many of Americans remain hurried,
frightened, and competitive, and continue to live life as if it were
one giant emergency, is their fear that if people were to become
more peaceful and loving, they would suddenly stop achieving
their goals [and] become lazy and disinterested. When people
understand where countries are coming from, what [the citizens
of] that country [are] trying to say, and whats important to them,
being understood falls into place with hardly any effort. Seeking
first to understand isnt about who is right or wrong, it
iseffective communication. This will translate into a better,
more reasoning relationship within the World.
Tara L. Soll, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Mankind continues to hope for peace, but peace seems to elude
most of us. To preserve peace we need to practice tolerance for
others ideas and ways of lives. People in general need to realize
that just because we have the bomb or the gun it doesnt give us
the right to kill each other based on the way we live our lives.
Peace is a common ground, and the only way to reach that
common ground, is for people to stick up for what they believe in,
but at the same time have an open mind about what others believe.
Peace is definitely something for which we strive. We need to stop
making weapons of mass destructions, and focus on the things that
we can control, and thats how we act. We cant control how
others want to think and we cant make them believe what we
want them to believe. The only thing that we can do is to try to
55
understand why people do what they do and tolerate the
differences in us all. And hope for peace.
Jeff Linehan, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

It is astounding that human beings can be smart enough to build a
computer that fits in your pocket, and at the same time we are so
stupid that we cannot be at peace with each other.
Dillon Zachara, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

World War I and II did not bring peace and other wars have not
brought peace so what makes us think that a World War III or IV
will bring peace?
Tara Fisher, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

How to achieve peace:
Conflict in society is inevitable; however, an informed world
which has learned from its past can stop violence from escalating
into something uncontrollable. No one can stick his head in the
sand. No one can afford not to care. Peace in this world is the
responsibility.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Although men strive for enduring world peace, [they] ignore
what is required to achieve it. We must begin with improving
ourselves and then move on to the world. May war disappear
forever into the night, so that we may wake to an enduring dawn
of peace.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

We need to love each other for who we are and be respectful of
[diverse] opinions at the same time. When that happens, there
will be no need for war; instead, there will be peace.
Sara Curry, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

If it is peace that we are truly seeking, then is it reasonable to
pursue it with the use of bombs, battles, and fear? Will our
world ever overcome our differences and create peace? I believe
Jimi Hendrix knew what he was talking about when he said,
When the power of love overcomes the love of power the world
will know peace. We must end our hateful, cruel, and evil ways,
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and replace them with hopeful, loving, and trustful ones. Once we
have done this, life will be more pleasant and eventually peace
will follow.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

We, as citizens of the world, need to make a statement for peace.
If America can take the passion we put into preserving our
personal rights and apply it to the world instead of ourselves,
imagine the progression to peace that could be made.
Rachel Boyd, Medicine Lodge High l, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Peace is the unreachable prize that everybody tries to grab for. If
everybody grabbed at once, then we would have it.
Brian Whiteside, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Ramifications of war:
What would happen if the leaders of the world believed in peace
at any cost? Many people have thought about it; here are some
real examples of what would happen with the governments
money, soldiers families, and the art that could be destroyed
because of war.
If the world believed in peace at any cost, then there would be
more money for other things. In 1999, around 15 per cent of the
governments money was spent for defense. That is money that
could have helped a student from the lower class go to college and
not have to wait a couple of years before having enough money
saved up. It could also be used for insurance for people who arent
lucky enough to get a job that covers their whole family, if any of
the family, on insurance. Elderly people need more money than
they are receiving. They are not able to work, but they suffer with
barely enough money from Social Security. There really needs to
be an improvement in prisons because of the crowded conditions
and lack of security. With some more money, they would be able
to hire more people without putting other peoples jobs on the line.
If there were more road improvements, then the lack of bad road
would decrease the car trouble people have because of them,
which in turn would save money.
Another argument for peace is that many casualties have
occurred over the years because of wars. Since 1861, 2,536,715
people in the United States of America have been wounded or
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have died because they fought in a war. Fathers of innocent
children have died. Many wives have been left to raise at least one
child on their own. It is a very hard thing for someone to lose a
loved one in a war. Over the past 140 years, there have been
around 3 million people who have lost a loved one.
Because of war, civilizations have been destroyed; families
have been separated. Artwork that has been preserved for
hundreds of years has been treated as if it were just a rag to clean
with. Bridges that have stood there for at least 300 years have
been blown up so the enemy could not cross the river.
Melissa Jo Waterland, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas
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Section Three







Personal Reflections on Quotations
59

60
Personal Reflections
Quotation # 1


"This is one of those pivotal moments in history when we
CAN change the world for the better as we bring wisdom
actively to the fore and apply it with diligence and clarity.
Let!s not go to reaction, dishing out what we have
received, but act in a new kind of global compassion.
This is the time, we are the people. Our ancestors and
those who lost their lives are rooting for us. May we be
the ones who step off the wheel of the never ending action
and reaction." Justine Toms

That quote comes from The Lion in Winter by James Goldman.
The playwright James Goldman was born in Chicago on June 30,
1927. Mr. Goldman painted the picture of a dysfunctional royal
family with his play The Lion in Winter, earning him an Oscar
when it was made into a movie.
Even though the play takes place in medieval times, the
message applies today. People are the only cause of war;
henceforth, only people can stop war. When society gets wrapped
up in war, the reasons for fighting become lost and soon citizens
become instinctual rather than humanitarian. Too often countries
jump into battle because there seems like no other resolution.
There could be many solutions if society adopted the capacity to
overcome differences through more peaceful channels.
Shanda R. Wells, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

This quote refers to the evil of human beings. Queen Eleanor tries
to teach her sons that we humans are what cause warsnot ideas,
religions, or causes, but the human race. Even in the Dark Ages
people realized the cause of war. This has been a fight that we
have fought from the beginning of time. Love is how peace
begins, as explained by Eleanor. If we just love one another, then
the world will be changed for the better.
Jessica Youngs, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

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May everyone who hears or reads that, stand up and shout
Amen! That is the kind of ideals that America needs to hear
more often. Let us not make the same mistakes that were made in
Americas past. Let us not judge every person who resembles the
despicable men that perpetrated the terrible attack on the world
trade center and tried to attack the American way of life.
Thankfully they did not; they only made us come together and
made us stronger.
Steven Smith, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

What Mrs. Toms is saying is that we, being the United States of
America, have the power and abilities to change the future.
Instead of starting a war, we can act with intelligence and
wisdom. We are not alone. We do not have to hurt anyone just
because we got hurt. I am in agreement with Mrs. Toms. We do
not need to start a war. We can use our intelligence and wisdom
to avoid using violence. We are the people, and this is the time to
start using the wisdom and intelligence gained from the past. We
have the choice to step off the wheel of the never ending action
and reaction. We are not currently at peace. We are now in the
middle of another world war. This is a world war against
terrorism. We could have tried to find the culprits peacefully, but
instead we are fighting and bombing Afghanistan. Mrs. Toms
could now change her quote to this: That was one of those pivotal
moments in history when we could have changed the world for the
better as we could have brought wisdom actively to the for and
could have applied it with diligence and clarity. We could have
acted with a new level of global compassion, not going to reaction
dishing out what we have received. It could have been the time
and we could have been the people. Our ancestors and those who
have lost their lives were rooting for us. We could have been the
ones who stepped off the wheel of the never ending action and
reaction, but we chose the more traveled route of reaction."
Sally Schauls, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

In this quote, Justine Toms is reminding Americans that we need
to stand together and rise above. I believe that she is saying we, as
Americans, need to be bigger people than the terrorists and act as
such. We shouldnt react to what they have done to us, but we
should repair the damage done to us, and we should also do our
62
best to prevent problems such as this from arising again anywhere
in the world, not just [in] the U. S.
I agree on her opinions on rising above, because if we cant,
America and the world will always be involved in tit-for-tat
battles. If someone doesnt stop the chain, then it will go on
forever. As Emerson once said, But the real and lasting victories
are those of peace, not of war. America has been given the
opportunity to be victorious and is striving to do so, with the help
of many nations and their citizens who want the chain broken as
much as we do. The first step on the road to change is to make
terrorists realize that all their efforts are for naught, that they arent
helping themselves at all.
Jennifer Lundborg, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

I believe that we can change the world; that every single one of
us can make a big difference. I agree that it is the way humans act
or re-act that causes war. It really isnt the forces, times,
government, ideas, or religion, [it is] us. We decide how to react
and by us overreacting then all chaos breaks out. What have we
got to lose from loving each other? Not much, but we have so
much to gain. The possibilities to help change the world and our
lives lies in our hands. People are watching how others react
and they pick up on it with out us even knowing. If we all just
tried to make the world a positive place and watch out for our
negative attitudes, then we would be able to [achieve] greatness"
Jamie Thompson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

"If you look back in history you will see war after war,
and conflict after conflict. All this fighting and killing has gotten
the world no closer together or any closer to try to establish world
peace. Violence just contributes to more and more violence. If we
look back and realize the pattern that our ancestors made for us,
maybe we could realize that war isn't the answer for solving the
world's problems.
People can learn how to act nonviolently. A small village in
Guatemala was in the middle of the conflicts during their civil war
between the paramilitary and the guerrillas. All the members of
the town got together and decided that they didn't want the
fighting to take place in the middle of their town, so they thought
up a plan. One night, when the military was planning to attack, the
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village surrounded the military barracks and demanded them to
leave their town. The military wouldn't, so the villagers stayed
surrounding the barracks for several days. After a while, the
military decided to fire at them, so they started shooting. Fourteen
people were killed during this, but not a single shot got fired back.
The military decided that the people were too strong and left the
village. At the anniversary every year, there is a huge festival in
the town and the military hasn't come back. This is one example
how nonviolence broke the pattern of action and reaction.
Emma Miles, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

The only end to the never-ending cycle is for Americans to break
it. We must not go to reaction, dishing out what we have
received, but act in a new level of global compassion. This is the
time, we are the people. Our ancestors are rooting for us. May we
be the ones who step off the wheel of the never-ending action and
reaction, is the perception of Justine Toms as of September 12,
2001.
This is the first step and the hardest part, to look past the
tragedyTo change the world and all who live in it will be the
greatest task, and thereward for such an achievement isworld
peace. May we live to see the day.
Nels Overgaard, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

I believe that she is referring to the youth of the nation when she
says that we can change the world, but what many people are not
realizing is that a war is being fought everyday. Even if it is not a
war of weapons and violence, it is a battle between kids and teens
everywhere. It is a battle between being better than the person
sitting next to you or whether or not someone is [a] different skin
color than you.
Tiffany Jo Gibson, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

Bombing and the use of excessive force are necessary in some
situations. For example, we have been attacked by terrorists time
and time again over the last several years. After the September 11
th

attack, we were finally forced to take serious action, but not until
after we tried to get Afghanistan and the Taliban to cooperate with
us. They chose to be our enemies in our struggle for world peace.
Since they would not cooperate, we had to start attacking
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Afghanistan. In this case the United States had no choice. It was
the only way to try and stop terrorism and try to maintain world
peace. I agree with Ms. Toms[that] we should not react in the
same way that the terrorists hit us. The terrorists that hijacked the
four jets were cowards. They did not attack us from a military
standpoint. Instead, they attacked innocent people and took many
innocent lives. American forces should not react this way. We
should go straight after the guilty people that were involved with
this attack and not after innocent people.
Dustin Hern, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

I agree completely with these words. The only way to overcome
world hate is to show compassion worldwide.[Retaliating against]
innocent people of Afghanistan will not solve the predicament the
U.S. has been placed in; it only leads to more hatred. We must
show love and support for other countries in order to receive the
same in return. Now is the time to rebuild the strong name [of] the
United States and [assume our place] as the world leader. We can
overcome this horrible tragedy, but only with time and patience.
We muststrive for global compassion. For this is the only way
tofind peace.
Rachel Brungardt, Medicine Lodge High School, Medicine Lodge,
Kansas
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Personal Reflections
Quotation #2


"The greatest waste in the world is the difference
between what we are and what we could have become."
Ben Herbster

People don't live up to their potential. They reach a certain point
in their lives when they feel that they've done enough, and they
don't try to see how much farther they could go, how much
stronger they could be, how much more they could learn.
However, there will always be the people who do not want to go
the distance, who are satisfied with not knowing everything that is
in their grasp. Ignorance is the greatest waste in the world.
Laura Stonesifer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

He [Dr. Herbster] is saying that many people have all the
potential in the world but never realize itIn order to make
progress in life, we need to take risks and never give up on our
dreams. I think this quote is a lot like what Garth Brooks sings
about in his song, Standing Outside the Fire. In this song Brooks
sings the following, Life is not tried, it is merely survived, if
youre standing outside the fire. I think Dr. Herbster and Brooks
are both right; people should live their lives to the fullest and not
be scared to try new things.
Hillary Giller, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

I believe that Ben Herbster is only partially right. He is right in
saying that everyone has potential. Some people are born with all
the advantages. A person can only do so much to use all their
potential, and some people are just trapped in a life that they
would do anything to get out of. Wasted potential comes when the
person with all the advantages doesnt use their potential."
Sally Schauls, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

All who read this quote are inspired not to waste a single moment
in their precious lives. Our minds must not be wasted, but in
contrast, must be tested and used to their utmost ability. The goals
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that we make for ourselves must be set high, and we need to strive
for these goals and dreams everyday. For, if we do not, our energy
for life will wither away and leave us empty. Today, we are no
longer allowed to follow our dreams and goals with[out
awareness] of the world around us. What is happening to our
world? What will become of our nation? Is the United States
truly going to waste away and allow barbaric foreigners to take
away our countrys pride? Thesequestions areon every
Americans mind. Using Herbsters ideas as a basis, we must
consider what peace we
can find in the midst of war.
Megan Bedwell, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Dr. Herbster stated that as long as we concentrate on war, we
could never put our attention towards advancement of the human
race.
Brian Baskerville, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

In other words:
Ben Herbster was trying to say was that the world today is a big
mess and when we decide to clean up that mess we will be great.
Jason Yarbrough, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Nate sees waste in not seizing opportunities:
The 90s were one of the most prosperous decades in history,
[but] instead of using that prosperity and tranquility to tackle the
larger issues at hand, we had the largest audience in history
watching the O.J. Simpson trial. We are supposed to be expanding
our horizons, dealing with the larger issues at hand, but everyone
sits around watching one mans life fall apart.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Jamie put a unique twist on Herbsters words:
We all have so many hidden talents that it is insane. We all just
settle for the way it is, and let it gosomeone else will fix the
problem.We all need to realize that there is more to us, and we
can help many people if only we tried. Why does it always
seem that something bad, really bad, has to happen before
something good gets done?. Take the tragedy of September
11,2001 for instance: four planes were high jacked from different
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U.S. airports. Arent airports supposed to be safe, with high
amounts of security? Well, then why and how did four planes get
high jacked? If our airports had higher security and more attentive
people working for them, then this would not have happened.
Why did so many have to die for airports to crack down on their
security?
Jamie Thompson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Most people [are] comfortable with what they have become [and
are loathe] to risk losing it to find something better. [They]
become content[and] once contentwhat [they could] become,
no longer [matters]. People need to remember what it was like as a
child to dream [and][then strive to] make that dream [a reality].
Kallin Anderson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Some people have the gift of knowing that they could work well
with the elderly or with the physically or mentally handicapped,
but they dont. When someone knows that they have the talent to
do something in life [he/she shouldnt] just stand there, [they
should] go and do something about it. Many people are out there
today waiting for that someone to come along and change or make
a difference in their lives.
Amanda Kies, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

There is probably somebody somewhere in the world that easily
could have been another Bill Gates or another Albert Einstein.
The reason they don't live up to their potential is because they
don't try. Aperson could be put down by society to the point
that they let other people tell them what they can and cannot
be. Albert Einstein wasn't liked in high school. He failed a lot and
they almost classified him as mentally slow. If he would have
believed them, and decided that he couldn't do anything like they
thought, there is no way he would have accomplished all that he
accomplished.
I have a friend who gets mostly A's and B's. He is really
intelligent and knows that he can pull out with a C in any class
with no studying at all. About a month ago my friend and a few of
his friends took an intelligence test. When they got the results
back, my friend had the highest score by about 500 points. The
rest of the guys, who are all straight A students, all had around the
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same scores. It is obvious that my friend is smarter than his
friends. My friend does not live up to what he could really be. I
find that very sad.
Teachers, parents, friends and counselors all tell kids that they
can be anything that they want to be. It's really sad how many of
those young people don't believe it when they hear it. They go
through life satisfied with average when they could maybe be
outstanding if they tried. It might be because they grew up with
people that told them that they weren't good enough. Either way
it's a wastefor anyone to not live up to what they could be.
Lindsey Schaffer, Kiona-Benton Highl, Benton City, Washington

I agree with Ben Herbsters quote. If the terrorists that so
painstakingly planned their attacks on September 11th would have
put their minds, time, and energy into doing good for mankind, the
world may have a cure for cancer right now or an invention that
would help stop global warming like an automobile that doesnt
run on gasoline.
Casey York, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

As I turn and think of not only [Ben Herbsters] life, but also this
one quote, I am filled with mixed emotions, both confused and
clear, pain and relief, and despair and hope. To me, this quote
explains the balance in peoples minds. The ever-continuous battle
of who a person is compared to that of what that person is willing
to do and how far he is willing to go on the road of success, It is an
amazing difference. I see people living on the streets, but why? Is
it because they will not try, or maybe they spend the little money
they have on drugs or alcohol? Again, many of these people
sought employment yet were they turned away due to their
lifestyle? How can people who are treated this way get back to
who they were or might have been? How can their children change
their future if people hold them back by not trusting them? How
can children become who they have potential to become unless we
believe in them and help? These thoughts alone bring pain and
confusion to my heart.
As I take this quote and utilize it for our country, I become
confused. After tragedies such as the Oklahoma bombing and the
New York terrorist attacks, I cannot fathom the amount of self-
anger these people must have felt for them to create such acts of
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destruction. To go against innocent people and take their lives 
this is crazy! These men also wasted their own lives! How many
of the terrorists may have become great doctors or mechanics?
There is no end to what these men may have become. [However,]
in their country, they will go down in history and always be
remembered for noble acts.
Most people would rather let fate decide and believe that
certain people are destined to do certain things. However, as
humans, we have the will to choose. The only thing standing
between our choices of good or ill in life is our motivation,
determination, and influence. Motivation is set in place by people
or circumstances. Determination is the next step. Influences
in our lives set the strength of both our determination and our
motivation. But how to instill these characteristics [is the
issue].
Annie Southerland, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

It takes a special person to reach a level of full potential and true
greatness in a lifetime. Most men lack the motivation and
dedication. Oftentimes an unexpected turn on the road of life
causes normal men to stray from their dreams. A great man may
be thrown off for some time, but always returns to his intended
path and accomplishes his goals.
[Many] people do what is easiest in life; the beaten path is
preferred over new frontiers. [They] settle for less because less is
simple to obtain.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

This is a very thought-provoking quote because it causes us to
examine our lives and search for ways we can improve. It is also
quite inspirational because it conveys how failures in the past and
present can bring hope for the future as we continually try to learn
from our mistakes. Conditions on earth will never be perfect
because of human nature, but hopefully we can try to improve, if
nothing else, the way we treat each other. Life is ultimately too
short to ceaselessly slander those around us.
Through my research, I did not obtain much information about
Dr. Herbster, except his existence as a Christian leader, so I am led
to conclude that he is somewhat of a common person. This
assumption causes me to appreciate his words even more. He
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seems very wise and knowledgeable about human weaknesses.
Chelsi Winborne, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

I strongly agree with Herbster. Our world today would be a much
better place if everyone gave 100 percent in everything he/she did.
People today seem to give just enough to get the job done and get
paid. Many problems are caused because of this lack of effort and
many problems could be avoided if people would just listen and
act on what Ben Herbster has to say.
Justin Shelite, Medicine Lodge, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

I believe that Herbster was trying to state that the world is being
wasted by evils such as hatred, jealousy, and war. These evils
destroy a world that could be a calm, blissful place, a place where
no one would fear anyone or anything. I agree with Herbsters
quote. The evils of the world are a waste. They are holding the
world back, keeping it average when it could be outstanding.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

In America, individuals have the opportunity to do and be
anything they want to achieve. Social classes are not permanent at
birth and can be changed. Everyone is able and required to receive
some education. The flow of personal freedoms and liberties
seems never ending in the United States. Yet, many individuals do
not take full advantage of what they could become in this mighty
country. Ben Hebster, a Christian leader, states, The greatest
waste in the world is the difference between what we are and what
we could become. It seems that many freedoms, such as speech
and opportunities, such as education, are taken for granted. Many
other countries have citizens who only dream of liberty as vast as
what Americans exercise. Our nation has the potential of
becoming so much greater than it already is at this point.
Individuals need to strive to be everything they can be in order to
make a difference in our country. Ben Herbsters words can also
be applied to an entire world perspective. Nations are always
arguing and battling as every country strives to be on top. Imagine
what we could become if there was a peaceful solution to these
disputes and all nations worked together for the benefit of the
human race.
Rachel Boyd, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas
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Kasey appears to have given Ben Herbsters words a great
deal of thought:
In the middle of a dry and barren wasteland, there lies an
enormous heap of rubbish. This massive pile has an odor that is so
repulsive that even the desperate, hungry field mice will not gather
at this isolated site. Objects that were once valuable are now
decomposed and rotten. After visiting this horrible location, one
feels filthy and quite eager to become clean once again.
Perhaps this is the intensity Herbster was trying to portrait
when he used the word waste. Decay and rot are utilized to
connect the reader with the physical human wastethat area of
limbo between our reality and our potentialthat we seem
satisfied being. We are all born with the capability to succeed and
to achieve high goals. However, one must put
forth the effort and strive for perfection.
Kasey Swayden, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

There is always great waste during war times. Ben Herbster once
said, The greatest waste in the world is the difference in what we
are and what we could become. Little is known about this man,
but his wisdom will have an everlasting effect on civilization. War
is one of the greatest atrocities of man. It is a complete waste of
life, time, and resources. World War II alone cost
$263,259,000,000 and 405,399 U.S. military lives. Men cannot
live up to their full potential in times of war. Lives and resources
are sanctified for the arrogant ambitions of a small number of
people. Abraham Lincoln was the father and savior of our country,
but because of his beliefs during the Civil War, he was murdered.
There is no way of knowing how great this country could have
been with an extended presidency. During the rise of communism
in Russia, art and literature had been exploited along with an anti-
intellectual view. These regimes hindered their own national
development. Only in peace can the true abilities of man be
measured. Humans are violent by nature, and until the desire for
violence is eliminated, death and destruction will plague the
human race. Perhaps by the grace of God, men will find new ways
to settle their differences and all this needless suffering will come
to an end.
Matt Bodson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

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Personal Reflections
Quotation #3


"I prefer the most unjust peace to the justest war that
was ever waged."
Cicero in a letter to Atticus

Cicero is saying that he prefers peace instead of war. Even if the
peace is unfair and someone is mad, its still better than war. I
agree with Cicero. I dont like the idea of war. I dont like having
my country fighting in a war as it is doing right now. I prefer
unjust peace. The unjust peace doesnt have to last forever. The
situation can be worked out with time. I do not believe that war is
the answer to all problems between countries. I would not change
his quote because it is still true today. As long as countries fight
and there is war, Ciceros opinion will still be true.
Sally Schauls, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Ciceros quote refers to a just war, much as Osama Bin Laden
would like to believe in a holy war. It appears that there are
those who use loopholes to find a way to satisfy their needs and
interpret what is holy until it justifies their behavior. At this point,
an unjust peace sounds a whole lot healthier and more
upstanding.
Christa Fitch, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Just war is an oxymoronic concept. War and killing, no matter
howseemingly warranted, are never just. They are simply
vengeance at the price of human life and freedoms. For as long as
humanity has existed, wars have been fought: over land, over
religion, over freedom. Just war even gives cause for countrymen
to fight and kill their fellow countrymen and rip apart families.
Peace in any form is more just that the slaughter of innocents in a
just war.
Rachel Mohr, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Cicero was a very intelligent man. In this quotation, he meant
that he would take any kind of peace over war any day, and many
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people agree with this. It doesnt matter what kind of war or peace.
Peace is always better in the eyes of Cicero.
Melissa Jo Waterland, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

This statement should never be forgotten, especially in a time
when Americas blood is still boiling and the emotions are crying
out for brutal retaliation and justice. The United States did not start
the war against terrorism; the terrorists started a war on usa
global Jihad type of war. Osama bin Ladensfollowers believe
he is leading themtoward a better world through this holy war.
Now Americans are protecting themselves and fighting back in
hopes of getting justice and preventing further attacks. Terrorism
will never be justified or legitimate, no matter their goals or
grievances.
John Witt, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Ciceros quote should be used more often. If more people
followed it, the world would be more peaceful, if not as happy as
it could be. But since no such thing as a justified war exists, no
such thing as an unjust peace should be able to exist as well. Yet
time and again people complain about unjust peace and want to do
something about it. Unjust peace may simply mean that some
people are oppressed while another group thrives. Although that
way of living might not seem fair, it doesnt mean that pointless
deaths caused by starting a war would be justified. No killing is
ever justified, and wars are nothing but pointless killings.
Jill Honor, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Ciceros statement proves the fact that peace is far better and
more secure than any war. But unjust peace is not unjust. There
is one man who had the same concept for peace as Cicero,
although the two men lived in very different times. This man is
Muhammad Ali.
Ali was not just a boxer; he was and is a Black Muslim with
strong beliefs. One such belief is the opposition of war. Ali
refused induction into the US Army in 1967. The boxing
establishment in New York revoked Alis boxing license and
stripped him of his championship title. In 1971, the Supreme Court
finally upheld Alis draft appeal.
Ali was very brave when he refused to go to war. To him, war
was something that had nothing to do with what he was about.
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This could be the case with many people, but few have the ability
to pronounce their opposition for fear of the consequences. It is the
right of a person to have his/her own beliefs and proclaim them.
But it is a right that few take advantage of.
Lindsay Behrensmeyer, Rockridge High, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Cicero says, I prefer the most unjust peace to the justest war that
was ever waged. I agree completely with Cicero. Hes saying that
peace is the only way to live. Even if the peace is unruly, it is still
better than any war that could occur. In our world today, America
is in a war against terrorism. People in the United States wish that
this war could have been avoided. It caused loss of life and pain
in the hearts of loved ones of those whose lives were lost. If we
could have maintained peace in any way, it would have been better
than this appalling war that is occurringCicero learned as a
young man that war was not the way to solve problems.
Justin Shelite, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

I ponder to think of the possibility of war in our world today.
With the events that have taken place within the past few years,
my mind slowly drifts into a state of consciousness beyond the
normality of everyday life. To face the fact that I could be chosen
to fight for and protect my country creates fear and confusion
within my heart. Cicero, who lived from 106 to 143 B.C., was
both a Roman orator and statesman. In this quote I believe Cicero
was saying that he would rather have peace with little freedoms
than any type of war. It is admirable to know that Cicero had the
same feelings of disgust with war as many men of his age have
today.
Justin Bieberle, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Cicero was professing that peace is the best possible solution for
any type of disturbance. All forms of peace are better than any
forms of war. Martin Luther King Jr. stated, The past is prophetic
in that it asserts loudly that wars are poor chisels for carving out
peaceful tomorrows. Let us not make the same mistakes over and
over again. Some countries might try to give good, just reasons
for waging war on other countries. He would rather have
peace. Cicero was aware of wars horrific effects. The
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experiences of war turned him into a peace-loving man. Although
Cicero lived long ago, his words are still applicable to the world
we live in today.
Roger Seiler, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

This statement holds much truth and sets a moral guideline for
the modern world. According to Joseph Sobran, war ends in loss
for one side and pyrrhic victory for the other. A pyrrhic victory is
a victory so costly that it is hard to distinguish the winning side
from the losing. The only real lesson from war is that the
consequences do not stop when the fighting does.
Matt Bodson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

In these wars great numbers of unnecessary lives have been
taken, economies have been destroyed, millions of dollars of war
efforts have caused the nations to go into debt, and neither country
nor group ever wins. With peace everybody is a winner, and
nobody is hurt.
Victoria Worster, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

But several students disagreed with the quote attributed to
Cicero:
Cicero is saying that if he were George W. Bush, the President of
the United States of America, he would let Osama bin Laden [go]
because he does not want to go to war with Afghanistan. I think
that if any leader thought like that today many people would
wonder why he or she was their leader. I know that a statement
like that from President Bush would turn many heads in disgust
today. I like how President Bush is handling the Afghanistan
situation. From what Cicero said, he would probably have just put
his head down and walked away from the problem because he
would rather have peace than war.
Robert Gray, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

War can sometimes be a last resort, the lesser of two evils. This
statement by Cicero, I prefer the most unjust peace to the justest
war that was ever waged is one of the most foolish things I have
ever heard. Cicero was born in 106 BC to a family that was not
part of the Roman aristocracy. He rose above this, however, to
become one of Romes greatest statesmen and orators. According
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to his statement, though, Cicero would have preferred the warped,
so called peace of Communist China, where every day thousands
of babies are forcefully aborted, to the noble War for
Independence, during which the Founding Fathers recognized
certain unalienable rights; that among these, are life, liberty, and
the pursuit of happiness. He would have preferred the Pax
Romano, Roman peace, in which hundreds of thousands of
Christians were slaughtered because of their faith, to the war that
Joshua was commanded by God to undertake in order to drive the
wicked Canaanites out of the Promised Land. He would have
preferred a peace that encourages terrorists who kill or kidnap
innocents for money or some radical cause to a war that would
stop them and attempt to break the cycle of hate. In scenarios like
this one, war is the only option left to bring about a truly peaceful
life. Perhaps Cicero did not mean exactly what he said, but to
those that see war as all bad and peace as all good, I encourage
you to reconsider. As Thomas Fuller once said, It is war that
shapes peace.
Wesley Robinson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

This statement is absurd because peace can be as bad as war and
kill many people too. The Marathon fought by Greeks and
Persians was over the survival of democracy. The Battle of Bunker
hill between the U.S. and England was for Americas
independence.
William Davis, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Agree or disagree Cody makes a valid point:
Cicero, the Roman writer, statesman, and orator believed that any
kind of peace is better than the smallest war. During his military
service and practice as a legal representative, Cicero, Marcus
Tullius, developed an opinion of war and hate from what he saw
and experienced. While many people would agree with this
statement, it is easier said than done.
Cody White, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas
77
Personal Reflections
Quotation #4


"The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone has
such good intentions." Unknown Author

I agree with the author in that people, even terrorists, have good
intentions, at least in their own minds. Its human nature. For
example, during World War II, President Truman had an
extremely difficult decision to make regarding the use of the
atomic bomb. He chose to use it to bring a quick end to the war,
and it worked. Many American lives were spared, but at what
cost? Thousands of Japanese civilians were killed, maimed, or
suffered serious complications from radiation. Was the end worth
the means? I don!t think that is a question that can ever be
answered, simply because it will never be known what would have
happened if the U.S. had never used the atomic bomb. Butler was
right when he said, Theres a twinkling of a star between men of
peace and of war, and his words have been proven time and time
again.
Jennifer Lundborg, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

The worst school massacre in American history was caused by
two teens who focused their rage on non-whites and athletes.
Children are brought into this world surrounded by so much hate
and violence that they know nothing else. Since 1945 T.V. has
transformed the way people relate to one another. But could T.V.
simply be the cause of so much teen violence? It was once quoted
by an unknown source that The thing that makes life so cruel is
that everyone has such good reasons. What reasons could be
powerful enough to fill our youth with so much hatred for others?
Shawn Johnston, a psychologist once said that the mental
world of young killers is all about me. Theyre frustrated [and]
angryThey have no concern about others. Its all about who they
are and what they want. Whos to blame for the lives that
tragedies claim? No matter what you say it dont take away the
pain that I feel inside. Im tired of all the lies, dont nobody know
why its the blind leading the blind, are words from the song
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Youth of the Nation which clearly says that the problem with kids
is that the they are not raised to know or teach themselves the true
morals of life, so it continues to be a never ending cycle of hatred.
Today with billions of adults looking for a place for themselves
and for some degree of success, while at the same time attempting
to cooperate one with another, combined with an escalating
number of new temptations, the war between good and evil has
never been more intense. In this generation, as in none before it,
evil seems to be gaining the upper hand. They [kids] have
supervision, but no love. There is the teaching of information but
no teaching of principles, of values or of the planting of seeds that
will grow into character.
If kids feel this much pain, loneliness [and] selfishness today,
what will the future be like when they become the leaders?
Tiffany Jo Gibson, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

It seems that whenever there is a conflict, both sides of the
problem seem to have good reasons for why they are right. Too
many people are stubborn and bullheaded, which just complicates
matters even more.
Ashleigh Swanson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

The nuclear winter theory proposed that with the occurrence of
many nuclear bombs exploding in different areas around the globe
during a time of nuclear warfare, a nuclear winter could result.
First proposed in the 1980s, the nuclear winter theory is the idea
that with nuclear warfare, great clouds of dust and radioactive
material would raise into the atmosphere. These clouds would
block out sunlight, lowering the surface temperature of the Earth
and impeding the rate of photosynthesis by plants and bacteria.
Inhibiting the rate of photosynthesis would have a dramatic affect
on the food chain, causing the mass extinction of life- including
human life (Consequences).
Someone once said, The thing that makes life so cruel is that
everyone has such good reasons. This statement is very true.
Countries produce nuclear weapons with the intent of protecting
their country, but what will they do when other countries start to
bomb them with nuclear weapons? Will they answer back by
bombing the warring country with bigger and more nuclear
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bombs? Most likely, the answer would be yes. Their good
intentions lead to harsh consequences.
Emily Koster, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

To kill another by the unjust act of killing is not only
contradictory; its useless. Murderous acts that are retaliated by
other murderous acts can only start a vicious cycle of killing. The
United States is fighting terrorism in Afghanistanbecause
Americans want justiceserved in response to the injustice
endured here. That may seem like a good reason, but the
ramifications of that idea are immense.
Any proponent of war will have some sort of substantial
evidence supporting armed conflict. Another problem that arises
with questioning the relevance of war is that everyone seems to
have good reasons. Common reasons are to right a wrong[and]
to protect, or to flee from persecution. President George W.
Bush [justified our] war on terrorism [by reiterating the need for]
homeland security, justice, and to admonish the enemy. Though
these all seem like very laudable reasons, they have a misleading
appeal. The present war against terrorism has left many innocent
Afghan people scared, confused, and without leaders. After
September 11, many Americans shouted for a [retaliatory] war.
Though war carries an alluring sense of victory and good over
evil, it is a false belief because there are no winners in war.
Shanda R. Wells, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Some of the most convincing people are simply the most
believable because they [know] how to influence everyone into
thinking that their way is the only correct and logical way. A
college student once said that war made this country what it is
today and for that reason, the United States should be thankful for
its ability to defend itself so well. Althoughdefense is
essential, war is [the result of failing to] understand [the other side
and] to consider alternatives.
Christa Fitch, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Quotations, proverbs, biblical verses, poetry  they all have
been popular for hundreds of years. The same line can trigger
an infinite number of thoughts and emotions, even in the same
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reader at different times. Destinys reflection, below, is an
example of how the same quote can mean trigger very
different thoughts depending on the reader:

I've come across cruel reasoning many times. I put school above
everything else. My grades are basically what I hang by. I'm
naturally smart but I like to go the extra mile to impress whoever
may help [me achieve] success. I have a really close friend who is
really family-oriented. Looking at her family and their closeness I
envy her. She is a cheerleader, and a class officer; she is very
pretty and well liked. She is at most social events but when it
comes to Monday night she [puts] her family [first]. Monday
nights she spends with her family regardless of a dance, a game, or
a study group. I come in on the cruel part. I have never had a
family as I live in a foster home and had an extremely
dysfunctional childhood so family isn't a high priority to
me. When I stayed with my friend for an extended time, the truth
of the quotation that the cruelty of life is that we all have good
reasons became very apparent.
Destiny Petersen, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

Clearly the only reason that life is so brutal is because everyone
believes themselves to be in the right. That reason also makes
peace so hard to obtain.
Jill Honor, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

The human race wastes opportunities to look past itself
[Humans] feel as though they can justify their cruelty. Never has
it been clearer to us than today, as we live in a world full of
war, that we must strive for peace.
Rachel Boyd, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

We are fighting for our ethics, our morals, what we believe is
right. We are not fighting to kill with no regards to human life.
Ethics, values and morals are most always our fight. This leads me
to the fact that these ethics, values, and morals are the ones that
most often contradict with othercountries beliefs. The closer
we get to each otherthe more we have the power to deal with
our differences and make the world come together.
Nickie Haug, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington
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The point I think this quote is making is that every individual has
his or her own reasons and opinions, and chances are that those
reasons and opinions are going to be in conflict with [the opinions
of] other individuals.
Lindsey Schaffer, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone had such good
reasons, and the extremist of this world will not likely alter their
beliefs by force. Therefore, more military power is not going to
prevent madmen from attacking peace.
Stephanie Schock, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

The statement, The thing that makes life so cruel is that
everyone has such good reasons, is one of the best things Ive
ever read. When I read this it really got me to think about what it
was saying. Usually when I read something it just goes in and I
keep on reading but when I read this I stopped and thought about
what the words were saying. This statement is trying to get people
to not argue with one another as much and actually listen to what
other people have to say. Humans are so stubborn that we dont
normally take the time to listen to the other side of the story when
we think were right.
Josh Corriell, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

I think that this statement is true because there are different
reasons for people to do one thing. For example, Afghanistan
just wanted to kill Americans. They say they did it because of
religious beliefs. To these people, as bad as it may sound, there
was no wrong done. The majority of their population feels as if
they did the right thing.
Robert Gray, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

This statement may hold more truth than any one statement I've
ever heard. To me this is saying that life tends to be hard because
everyone has their own opinions and points of the utmost validity
as to why they do [the] things they do.Whether it is sports,
grades, or a family night out, each person prioritizes differently.
There is no right or wrong; it's the justification that lies within
them to put first what they feel appropriate.
Destiny Petersen, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington
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This author speaks the truth. Wars have been started because
there are two or more parties that do not agree. Each side feels
they are right and the other is wrong. The only way countries have
been able to deal with these kinds of feelings is by trying to
overpower the other. The same idea holds true for cult groups and
terrorists. Israel and Palestine is a prime example. Both groups
feel if they blow the other off the map, all the problems will go
away and be solved. No matter who would win the war between
the two, there will always be opposition from people that do not
agree with the victorious side. There is no easy answer but killing
each other surely will not end in a positive resolution.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Is war a justification for murder? Does our fear of change and
rejection make our prejudices righteous?. It is so disgusting that
people believe that there are appropriate situations or reasons to
hurt or even kill another living being. Human life is so precious,
but we treat it so carelessly at times. In war times, killing is
justified [as] defense. The value of human life plummets, and
death tolls are scores in the game of war. War has been an excuse
for killing throughout history. For example, Hitler persecuted the
Jewish people simply because they were different. Their religion
was not in compliance with Hitlers beliefs. What commenced as
the slaughter of one religion of people turned into a blood bath of
many nations.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

The hatred seen in everyday life will never stop because people
think they have reasons to act stony-hearted. I think of cruel like
the shape of a circle, never coming to a stopping point. If people
didnt have reasons to be cruel, would there still be cruelty?
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

William, below, exhibits a rare insight into War & Peace:
The second issue is the economy and how it is affected by war
and peace. War can be good because it could stimulate spending
money. On the other hand, it could strike fear in people and cause
them to stop spending money. Peace has very little effect on the
economy because it is a time when everything is calm so it neither
stimulates nor reducesspending. Two wars that helped
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Americas economy are World War II and The Gulf War. War and
Peace both affect the way we live our lives. In times of war, we
feel scared and helpless, but we also feel a little more secure about
our home knowing it is being defended. In times of peace, we feel
relaxed and enjoy life, but this feeling starts wearing off with time
and if [a long] times pass between wars, we start to take things for
granted. Then when an attack on us or another nation suddenly
happens, we feel great pain and realize what we had. A life
filled with war would be dreadful, yet a life with nothing but peace
would allow us to drift off our true beliefs and take many of lifes
[blessings] for granted.
Most people are either for war or for peace, but a life with
periodic wars separated by periods of peace is the bestbecause it
keeps us true. War is assumed an evil thing because it involves
death but in order to keep our world a safe, pleasant place to live
we must wage war on things we believe are wrong and irrational.
If we look past the darkness associated with war, we see an
interesting trend. Almost all wars were fought because the nations
people or allies were threatened. All great civilizations have had
great militaries. In order to remain a dominant nation, you must
be able to compete with the other major nations. Greece, Rome,
Great Britain, France, and the United States of America all have or
had great militaries. In World War II the United States, Great
Britain, France, and the U.S.S.R. made up the allied powers.
Men were sent off to war to fight the Germans, Italians, and
Japanese. Women and young boys were left in the States to
[tackle] jobs created by the war such as building military
equipment and making ammunition.
William Davis, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Hitler's reasoning was that he believed that Germans should be
the only race alive, so he [tried to obliterate] the Jewish race.
Napoleon's reason for power was that he wanted to be [a dictator],
and Bin Laden's reasoning for the attacks on America was
basically because he didn't like the American [way of life] and its
religion.
Mandy Marshall, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas
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Personal Reflections
Quotation #5



I dont know what kind of weapons will be used in the
third world war, assuming there will be a third world
war. But I can tell you what the fourth war will be fought
with---stone clubs. Albert Einstein

This was said by Albert Einstein, a famous mathematician, who
developed the Theory of Relativity. In this quote he is trying to tell
us that whatever men will use in the third world war, will end up
laying waste to everything that we have spent our whole existence
establishing. With many of the techniques used in war today such
as atom bombs, chemical warfare, and biological warfare, we
could easily destroy everything in existence, without even really
meaning to. Without a real understanding of what destruction
these weapons could cause, how can we prevent complete
annihilation? These tools of destruction have not been around long
enough to tell what side effects might be caused by the use of
them.
Einstein's pointis that men seem to be regressing back to the
days of the Stone Age. Instead of growing as people and becoming
wiser, we seem to be going back to the days when a conflict with a
neighbor resulted in physical violence. It is like we are forgetting
how to use diplomacy and the power of speech to accomplish a
peaceful settlement. We instead use force, which is most of the
time unnecessary.
Stacey Jackson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

An interesting interpretation:
Albert Einstein had an excellent point. He is saying that if
humans continue to fight without understanding the mistakes from
the previous wars, the present generation will be as ignorant as
Neanderthals. A war without first comprehending the
consequences would be a loss for everyone involved.
Beth King, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

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Einstein also said, Peace cannot be achieved through violence, it
can only be attained through understanding. He said, he
passionately hates senseless violence and all the loathsome
nonsense that goes by the name of patriotism. If
weactbefore we have a clear understanding of what the
consequences are going to be, we are going to be irrational in our
decision-making. Acting extremely isnt necessarily what the
world and everybody needs right now. Talking about todays
military, Albert Einstein said, He who joyfully marches to music
rank and file, has already been given my contempt. Heroism at
command, how violently I hate this. How despicable and ignoble
war is.
Our war is only going to lead us to destroy ourselves and
destroy the world, leaving nothing, nothing at all for there to even
be a fourth world war.
Sarah Miles, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Dr. Einstein probably thought that if the atomic bomb gets out to
the powerful countries, then maybe the third world war would
consist of a nuclear war. Countries wouldnt have to send troops
or machines over to fight the battle; instead [they would] fight
battles with a push of a button. At the end of the third world war
where nuclear weapons were the call to battle, everything would
be lying in ruins. Since everything maybe lying in ruins, all that
would be left to start the fourth world war would be stone clubs.
[We might not] know who started it, but we would know what
weapons were used in order to fightstone clubs.
Kyle J. Stauter, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

As Einstein said, we will end up fighting the fourth world war
with stone clubs The third world war will be so horrible that it
will terminate all the technology sources we have. As a human
race, we will be taken back in time to the stone ages. The vast
destruction [caused by] ourpride will take us there.
Wars are breaking out all over the worldWhat happened on
September 11, 2001, has changed the world and our lives forever.
Maybe Einstein had psychic powers to predictwhat will
probably take place. Albert Einstein could see the potential that
human beings have. He also knew the evil that lurks around in the
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world and the hearts of men. Smart people with evil thoughts
always equal trouble. A third world war may or may not come; I
pray it doesnt."
Aimie Jorgenson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Because war has risen to the scale it is on today, people are
searching for signs of peace for fear of mass destruction. For as
long as high-energy weapons are around, people will fear too
much to be at total peace. Albert Einstein realized this and tried to
do something about it in his last letter before he died.
Brian Baskerville, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Einsteins prediction in this quote is that the world will destroy
itself. He was referring to the arms race during World War II. It
got to the point where each country could blow up the world
several times, which in turn would destroy the entire human
race. With the technology the world holds today, there are many
unimaginable weapons that could be produced and used to bring
us back to where the world started. Sticks and stones will be the
outcome if a third world war were to occur.
Stacy Gobbler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Albert Einstein is very right. If we keep fighting and destroying
everything, we will have nothing left.
Melissa Jo Waterland, Valley Springs , Valley Springs, Arkansas

Although the selection of ammunition will vary and grow as
technology intensifies, it will not matter because the outcome will
be the same if such power is misusedworld devastation. If a
disaster of this magnitude were to occur, mankind would revert
back to the practices of its very early ancestors. Man would lose
everything he had strived to create and have to
begin anew.
Einstein was wise beyond his time and much of what he said
has a possibility of coming true in our age of technology. This
quote shows that no matter what the next world war is fought with,
it will certainly bring about our downfall. I agree with Einstein
that mankind will end up back in the stages of childhood if peace
isn't maintained. Peace is vital to our survival, while war is
survival's arch nemesis. Man's deepest and most important instinct
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is survival. If peace is vital to the endurance of the human race,
why wage pointless war? Mankind has advanced so far in
technology since the Stone Age, it should have advanced in
intelligence, also. War is for the Middle Ages, from which we
have progressed to more pointless battles and weapons of greater
ability. Being able to blow up the world fifteen or more times is
not important to life or survival of the human race. The ability to
blow up the world once is already too much. Einstein's words have
become very important to me. Einstein had an inkling of how
the world would start over, knowing what the cause would be, but
uncertain of the weapon of choice. The prominent choice of
destruction has been the nuclear bomb. Following closely on its
heels, though, is biological and chemical warfare. The immense
scale of these effects, and that too resulting from just a single
fission weapon with a low yield, should make it clear that the
possible use of such weapons would lead to a major catastrophe.
The only guarantee that such a tragedy would never occur is
complete elimination of nuclear weapons, both from the region
and from the world, and the means to manufacture them, from the
Conclusion of Bombing Bombay? Effects of Nuclear Weapons
and a Case Study of a Hypothetical Explosion by M.V. Ramana
validates Einstein's comment of world destruction, if the human
race were to wield its horrific tools of terror.
Holly Marie Mishler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Einsteins quote is a wake-up call to all humankind, warning
political figures and lay people alike that the weapons they create
will end up being the death of them. When countries continually
bomb other countries, not only does it ruin economies and
governments, but it also destroys the environment and damages
human life in ways that are not readily apparent. In times of war,
especially with the vast amount of technological knowledge the
human race possesses today, whole cities could be taken out with a
single bomb. With bombing comes retaliation, and so more
bombing. Blinded by the quest for revenge, people will go to any
level to punish those who inflict [harm]. Before mankind realizes
what has been done, it may be too late. Radioactive dust particles
and other debris would have already begun to block sunlight.
Barely noticeable at first, but then gradually the situation worsens
until Earth is once again a barren, desolate place. Life processes
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once again start over from the very beginning, just as they did at
the creation of Earth. Todays political leaders need to take
Einsteins words seriously.
Emily Koster, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Perhaps it is good to have several different countries with nuclear
capabilities, in order for each of them to be too afraid to use them
for fear of retaliation. Or maybe, it means the end of modern
civilization.
Brian Baskerville, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Albert Einstein was right years ago when he said he didnt know
what weapons would be used in the next world war. The United
States doesnt even know what they are going to use next to get rid
of terrorism. The attacks of September 11
th
have propelled the
United States and the rest of the world to act quickly.
A.J. Kelly, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

I think that Einstein didn't intend the quote to stress the fourth
world war being fought with stone clubs, but that we would kill
ourselves. Right now we as a species have enough power to blow
up the world over a thousand times over. I don't [understand] the
need for all of this nuclear power. Isn't blowing up the world once
enough?
Rick Rose, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

I feel this quote is ironic. Albert Einstein thought that the fourth
world war would be fought with stones and clubs, but if there is a
world war that causes this to happen it will be caused by one
invention that Einstein worked on. Though Einstein was not
solely responsible for making the atomic bomb, he was with the
group of scientists that made it and [he] was the person that
suggested [it].
Eric Foss, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

Albert Einstein has a very good point in his quote. The world is
getting so much more technology, and every time we have a war
things get more powerful. The bombs get bigger and more
powerful, and the targets get bigger.
Luke Richardson, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma
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The next world war weapons will be so destructive because of the
atomic bomb that everything will be destroyed, and the only way
to develop new weapons is to start over again with weapons like
the stone club. Now that more countries have access to atomic
bombs, when a world war breaks out, many bombs could be used
causing massive destruction to the world. The atomic bomb was
created to help the end of World War II, but this invention could
cause the end of our society, and many people regret developing
it.
Michelle Pressly, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Einsteins words express his knowledge that in an age of ever-
progressing weapons of mass destruction, a world war would
involve a great deal of these weapons and bomb mankind back to a
stone age-like time. He envisions a holocaust that sets mankinds
progress back centuries. Nowadays, it is crucial that conflicts are
kept to a minimum to insure thefuture.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Einsteins mood seems very serious in this quote. It is
acknowledging mans destructive ability and warning of his
recklessness.
Andy Irwin, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Not only did Einstein believe that men would use any means
available to carry out conflicts, but he also predicted that such a
use would cause the destruction of all that mankind has built in the
last 4,000 years. This statement reflected the growing realization
that the world can no longer rely on displays of military strength to
preserve peace. World leaders saw this potential for self-
destruction and made an effort to ensure that posterity would not
be conceived in caves.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Man will create his own ruin through senseless war, which
accomplishes nothing and destroys everything. War is most often
caused by men who believe they have the right to anything they
desire, but it is fought by those who have been fooled by their
leaders' words of gallantry and righteousness. There will always
be war, even if man has nothing for which a war could be fought.
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It is part of mankind's nature to be jealous of another and to desire
that which one may never posses. People often fight for the most
insignificant of incidences, while a select few will fight to
possess the world.
Holly Marie Mishler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Einstein is saying that if there happens to be a third world war,
the weapons that will be used will be so destructive that almost the
whole world will be wiped out. The human race will then have to
start over, and then the next war, the fourth world war, will be
fought by cavemen with stone clubs. Einstein believed that
intelligence and understanding were the key factors to achieving
peace, but he also knew that as people get smarter, the weapons
they use become more dangerous.
Brett Anderson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

This scientific genius knew that the weapons used in the third
world war will be so powerful that they will destroy the world,
leaving only stone clubs to fight the fourth world war. It is a fact
that the weapons that the United States has alone could level the
earth several times. I believe that to maintain world peace and
prevent war, we must keep the madmen/terrorists from obtaining
possession of nuclear weapons and other earth-threatening
weapons.
Dustin Hern, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Yet another take on Einsteins words:
In stating this, Albert Einstein must believe that the third world
war is going to frighten people enough to convince them to revert
back and settle conflicts the old way, using men over machines,
instead of progressing forward with more new technology. If I had
to pick a prediction that I think would play out to be the most
precise; I would choose this one. Technology is starting to be more
harmful than valuable. Nothing will ever be good enough. Before
long, the wrong weapons are going to fall into the hands of the
wrong man and a horrific dilemma is going to happen. From then
on, arguments will be settled in a different manner.
Kirk Inslee, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

91
Einsteins hypothesis seems all too true. He knew before the
thought of a third world war even occurred that it would be
extreme and the world as we know it would take a sharp turn for
the worst. When Einstein refers to stone clubs, hes implying that
the devastation the world will encounter will leave us with
scarcely nothing and take us back to the days of the cavemen.
Robin Long, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

That horrible and viscous act of terrorism on September 11 has
stirred [dormant] fears in everyone and has caused the United
States to enter into a state of war with those terrorists and the
country that is harboring them. What kind of war will this war be?
The war might be a rapid, short war where the enemy surrenders
abruptly, or it might go as far as becoming the third world war
with other countries turning on each other. I assume that if there is
a third world war, biological and chemical weapons will be used
extensively and that the world could seal its own fate. Albert
Einsteins words support this theory. Arguably Albert Einstein
is one of the most important and intelligent people in the 20
th

Century. His role in WWII could have easily been reversed, and
we all might be hailing Hitler right now. I believe that what
Einstein meant by indicating the fourth world war will be fought
with clubs is that after the third world war, there would be nothing
left from the world as we know it. With all the advanced
technologies and massive weapons in the world right now, the
third world war could be a nuclear or chemical holocaust and
might just send us back to the days of the cave men after all the
burning and radiation goes away. I completely agree with
Einsteins quote. I think that if we dont do something to create
and maintain world peace, we all might seal our own fate.
Clint Ohl, Medicine Lodge High School, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Today our world is endangered by two main problems: nuclear
weapons remaining from the cold war and the expanding of these
weapons to new countries. It has been a stand off in which both
sides have the power to obliterate the world but neither willing to
make the first move as long as the sides are equal. The leaders of
countries that own nuclear weapons are loath to see them go. They
feel a need to protect themselves and the countries they govern
from their neighbors. This type of protection [would] not be
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necessary if peace were applied and competent individuals or
committees [would] govern the countries as they should. Those
who cause war usually are not the ones who fight for their cause.
They tend to sit back and watch the events unfold, while giving
orders from their safe offices. War should be avoided at all costs,
no matter how perfect or right the cause may be. Hopefully, we
can avoid Einstein's premonition, elude a third world war, and
escape from using stone clubs while wearing deer hide loincloths.
Holly Marie Mishler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Albert Einstein warned of what could happen if man made the
same mistakes as his ancestors Before Albert Einsteins death in
1955, he was offered the position as the second Israeli President.
He refused the offer, but sent a letter to Bertrand Russell asking
that all nations give up their nuclear weapons. It was fitting for
Einsteins last letter to be an argument because arguing for
international peace was what he did all of his life.
Ashley Johnson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Albert Einstein was a brilliant man who knew that our new
weapons would some-day destroy civilization, as we know it.
Nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and chemical weapons are
the most horrific things that have ever been created. They will
take us back to the Stone Age.
Donald Berry, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

If a religious third world war took place, I believe that much of
the human population would be [destroyed]. A religious war asks
that everyone take a side. If the people do not, they usually end up
dead. A countrys pride would determine how much effort it
would put into the war. Because of their pride [people] will go too
far and even with all the technology in the world, [they] will not
be able to save themselves from the inevitable.
Aimie Jorgenson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Religion and faith; hate and vengeance; these have caused more
wars than can be counted and taken more lives than one can
comprehend. Yet with each war both sides have told everyone
they were the right ones; some even felt there was nothing wrong
with gassing innocent children and then burning their bodies in
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human furnaces. Our enemies felt it was justifiable to instantly kill
4,000-6,000 people on September 11, 2001. With all this death,
can you come up with a good reason for war. If so, let me be the
first to know.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Albert Einstein was trying to say that the technology in the third
world war is going to be so powerful that it will send us right back
to the stone age. The unleashed power of the atom has changed
everything save our modes of thinking and we thus drift toward
unparalleled catastrophe. Albert Einstein was trying to say was
that he has unleashed the power to destroy whole countries. If
men as individuals surrender to the call of their elementary
instincts, avoiding pain and seeking satisfaction only for their own
selves, the result for them all taken together must be a state of
insecurity, of fear, and of promiscuous misery.
Jason Yarbrough, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

The technology we have today may just destroy the world as we
know it. Things like the atom bomb and nuclear warheads can
seem pretty scary in times like these. The one and foremost thing
that is on everyones mind is what would happen if we fought a
war with such weapons. We may never get peace if we just keep
creating new weapons that kill; we may just destroy the world
with our foolishness.
Benjamin Gibson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

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Personal Reflections on Quotation #6



People are becoming too intelligent ever to have another
big war. Statesmen have not anything like the prestige
they had years ago, and what is educating the ordinary
people against war is that they are mixing so much. The
motor-car, radio and such things are the great mixers ...
I believe the last war was too much an educator for there
ever to be another on a large scale. Henry Ford 1928

Ford was saying that since people were becoming less
segregated, they would have fewer differences to fight about. He
believed that World War I taught the world a lesson it would never
forget. At the time Ford made this statement, he believed what
he said to be true. However, if it had been fifteen years later, he
never would have said what he did. World War II was just around
the corner. I think that there will always be the possibility of
another big war. People have yet to learn how else to deal with
conflicts. Although people are intelligent enough to solve conflicts
without war, they will always feel the need to have complete
victory over the opposing side. It is a victory which only war can
bring.
Laura Stonesifer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Fords quote was written in 1928; ten years after World War I
and eleven years before World War II broke out. In 1895, the radio
was invented and became very popular in the early 1900s. People
were able to hear what was going on in the world for the first time.
In the yearly 1900s, the motor-car war invented so people could
actually go out and exploremore than they had before. This
exploration created a mixture in the cultures of people. His idea
sounded well though out, but the mixing of cultures also created
problems. Adolf Hitler, a German political leader, wanted an
Aryan race. He opposed the idea of mixing. His beliefs were also
shared by hundreds of others. This type of hatred soon started the
Second World War.
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The invention of the motor-car and the radio also informed the
people about their political leaders. Ford stated that up until 1928,
Statesmen where looked up to and were [not questioned].This
was security for the people; they [believed] nothing would go
wrong. In the 1950s, Senator [McCarthy] from Wisconsin
accused people of [engaging in] communist activities. Polls stated
that the people supported McCarthy until he was [seen] on
televisionHis public support fell, and he was condemned for his
conduct.
After World War I ended, people were more intelligent about
war. The hardships were not over though. [Problems] were
building up over those eleven years [and culminated in] something
so big that not even statesmen or technology could have stopped
[it].
Ford thought that if people were aware ofwhat was going on
[in the world that] wouldnt [create] problems. The other side to
that is if people know more, then they would have more problems
with our government. Knowing more is also good because
knowledge of our government is a security for the public to make
sure that everything is going well. [Today] the press [informs] the
peopleWe [even] know what kind of toothpaste [our elected
officials] are using in the morning.
Katie Rowe, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

At the time of this quote the United States of America was just
gaining solid footage from World War I. Peace and intelligence
were found to be very distinguished qualities that were
pronounced in the character of the American man. The motorcar
and the radio were considered great new technologies that would
bring the world together in peace because people would be
working together, socializing together, living closer together, and
our countries would be of mixed races and religions. They thought
that this would bring the world to peace because there would be no
war over power or technology and all knowledge would be shared
throughout the world. I believethe mixers that Henry Ford
talked about caused most of the anger between countries.
Nickie Haug, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

Henry Ford, may be the greatest American industrialist of all
time, was not only active in the manufacturing of automobiles and
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airplanes, he also chartered a peace ship in 1915, which took him
and some others to Europe where they unsuccessfully tried to talk
governments into ending World War I. In addition, he was also
nominated for the U.S. Senate in Michigan, he built the Henry
Ford Hospital in Detroit, and he became the publisher of the
Dearborn Independent. [In] this quote Ford [is] basically saying
that as people become more intelligent, wars will stop breaking
out. Henry Ford made this statement in 1928, about eleven years
before World War II began. Obviously Henry Ford was wrong.
Brett Anderson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Henry Ford lived through two World Wars. He believed this kind
of violence could not continue. He was wrong. War still defies this
world.
Ashley Johnson, Valley Springs High ,Valley Springs, Arkansas


Although a more reasonable hypothesis than that of Carnegie,
Fords conjecture has also been proven wrong. The inventions of
automobiles, television, computers, nuclear weapons and many
other significant innovations made it too easy for a nations
opponent to be demolished.
These mixers perhaps increased peoples awareness of the
possibilities of waging war and declaring victory. According to
Rod Plotniks Introduction to Psychology, it is human instinct to
create war. Therefore, no matter how many radios and motorcars
people have, there will always be nuclear weapons, powerful
tanks, and more dangerously, human instinct to create and endure
war.
Henry Ford was an outstanding businessman during the
1920s. He revolutionized the new age of the early twentieth
century with his booming automobile industry. Although his
prediction that mass-production methods and low prices would
produce an immense market for goods was correct, Fords
prediction concerning war has been proven wrong.
Kali Davis,Valley Springs High School, Valley Springs, Arkansas
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Personal Reflections Quotation #7


Peace is rare: Less than 8% of the time since the
beginning of recorded time has the world been entirely at
peace. In a total of 3,530 years, 286 have been warless.
Eight thousand treaties have been broken in this time.
Unknown Author

These facts are astounding! Why is it that a reality the world
has been looking for has been overshadowed by violence? Leaders
and their countries are constantly eager to react after any action is
taken against them. This causes a meaningless chain of anger. Can
this chain be broken? It can be if people stop acting upon their
rage. If a person renders suffering on someone else, why is it the
sufferers instinct to cause suffering as well? Why must one give
back the meaningless anger brought upon them?
Lindsay Behrensmeyer, Rockridge High, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

This statement should make people thinkAll of my life Ive
heard about wars and bombs and different military advancements.
But I dont think Ive ever heard anyone say thatthere are no
wars going on anywhere. To me that seems pathetic. There
have been warssince [the beginning of time]. Only eight percent
of all time recorded in history has the world been at total peace.
Josh Corriell, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

How sad that this quote is true. How sad that this quote describes
human nature so very well. People in general can always find
something wrong with anything, and they will betray others to
fight for what they think is right, no matter how outrageous it may
seem. The nature of human beings is misery loves company, and
if one group hurts or feels persecuted, that group bands together
and many times retaliates so others will hurt also.
The human race always has seems to find something to fight
about, whether it is land, leaders, or looks. It is often that radical
leader, such as Adolph Hitler and Osama Bin Laden that take their
crusades to the extreme. Often men such as these have a distorted
vision of a Utopian world and are able to persuade others to join in
their quest of perfection. The results, we have seen, can be
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disastrous. World War II and the acts of September 11, 2001 are
epic examples of tragedies that result from this mindset.
Jeff Linehan, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

In the 286 years we went without war, our governments were
intact and the people of our nations stood as a whole.
Amber Wright, Valley Springs Highl, Valley Springs, Arkansas

It is hard to believe all of the wars the world has had and all of
the treaties that have been broken throughout the span of history.
There is so much hate that has been plaguing our world since the
beginning of time and so much hate that still goes on. Why dont
people put more energy into helping our planet rather that
destroying it?
During this time of war, I think about what my ancestors have
gone through and tried to accomplish to make the world a better
place for everyone. When our forefathers wrote the Constitution,
they were trying to lay down some rules and guidelines that would
make everyone equal With all of the racism and discrimination
that goes on, it is not a shock that people are always fighting. Until
the end of time people will be trying to make peace and until the
end of time there will be fighting. The United Nations is one-
way countries have banded together to make the world a safer and
better place for everyone. Trying to find a way to keep the peace
has always been a problem and it will continue to be a problem.
We as citizens should find more ways to serve and protect our
nation. We always worry about the Middle East or what is going
on in other countries, but we should also worry about what is
happening in our own back yard.
Ashleigh Swanson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

It has been proven over and over again throughout time that war
is an inevitable part of the human culture. Very rarely is there a
period of time in which humans are at peace. Many crave the
feeling of absolute power and will do anything and everything
possible to achieve it, even sacrifice the lives of their fellow
humans.
Amanda Still, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

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To me, war is any struggle in which two or more large groups try
to destroy or conquer each other. Since the dawn of history, many
types of wars have existed. Families have fought against families,
tribes against tribes, and perchance the most detrimental; countries
against countries. Wars have always caused great suffering
and hardships. Most people despise war, yet war is going on
somewhere in the world nearly all the time.
Kasey Swayden, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

It is scary to comprehend how many times the human race has
knocked on the door of a nuclear war. A nuclear war would, no
doubt, be the end of everything as we know it. We have just been
lucky enough that no one has answered that door yet.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

No matter what anyone does, global peace is an unreachable goal.
Since the beginning of time, the peaceful years have been a scant
few compared to the years that have been full of wars.
Jill Honor, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

World Peace is something that will never happen. Too many
countries have too much military power and dont want to give in
to any other country. War is something that the world is going to
have to deal with because there has been very few years over the
history of the world that have been war free.
Aaron Bland, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

To counter Jill and Aaron, above:
Today we need to realize that peace is attainable [and] that war is
not the way to resolve conflict. People need to work together to
resolve their differences. We need to step forward and initiate
peace so that we can live in a better world. We need to be role
models for the rest of the world and show that we want and need
peace. We need to show the world that we will not be scared by
these attacks and we will live our lives [with resolve].
Aaron Gehrig, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa




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Personal Reflections on Quotation #8



The one means that wins the easiest victory over reason:
terror and force. Adolf Hitler

Terror and force can cause people to commit acts that they
wouldnt normally commit. When an enemy instills terror into the
people theyre attacking, the people become so scared that all
reason leaves them. Hitler believed that by instilling fearhe
would be able to more easily conquer Europe.
I think that although many people can be taken over by force
and fear, there will always be some who follow their beliefs no
matter what, some who will stand up to the oppressor. When
Osama bin Laden executed the attacks on the United States on
September 11, he was trying to instill terror in the American
people. Contrary to his wishes, America united, becoming a
stronger and more determined nation. A war is not won by a
single means but by a multitude of mistakes on the opposing side.
Laura Stonesifer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

What Hitler said about defeating reason with terror and force also
is true in the world right now. When America was attacked on
September 11, 2001, the smartest people in the world were dumb-
founded. Osama bin Laden used terror to get his message across
to the United States, and now a war has broken out.
Brett Anderson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Adolph Hitlers statement simply says that in moments of terror,
when confronted with an important decision, reason is
abandoned. Hitler capitalized on terror combined with force
with his blitzkrieg or lightning war in the Second World War.
Without warning, Hitlers troops would invade and conquer before
a resistance could be organized.
Wesley Robinson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Americans will not be scared into giving up:
Todayin the United States of America, it is not true that terror
and force scare us into thinking that it is the end of our freedom;
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we are a culture that does not back down but rises to meet force
with force. Today people of the United States do not live in fear
of another country invading the U.S. We are a culture that
stands up for what we believe in, and one that will not be
frightened by anyone. Though Hitler proved that terror and force
wins the easiest victory over reason, todays American citizen will
not be scared into giving up. The terrorists may have tried to put
fear in our hearts, but they have failed. They have merely united
the people of the U.S.A. and opened a huge can of worms.
Doug White, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

The Jews may have known what Hitler was doing was wrong, but
they did not protest. They did not protest because they were
afraid. They were afraid of losing their spouses, children, other
family, and friends. Hitler was right because even though Jews
and other persecuted peoples knew that Hitler wasnt the only
power in the world, they felt helpless and hopeless and feared for
their lives and the lives of their loved ones. This is still relevant
today. The majority of people still do not act rationally when
faced with extreme fear or terror. Fear and terror come when
people feel as if they have no way out, as if an enemy dominates
them. Thus, Hitlers quote was correct.
Krista Hakeman, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Force and terror worked:
Hitler has gone down in history as one of the greatest leaders of
all time along with F.D.R., Abe Lincoln, and Napoleon. He spoke
superbly and awestruck crowds of millions to absolute silence. He
not only promised, but also delivered. He was smart, clean cut,
well postured, well mannered, and had the ability to speak and get
through to people some say more than anyone in history or just
running short of Jesus. Hitler was forceful and scared many
people, and it worked. Once he had each person, nation, and
country right where he wanted them he let his real plan show.
Force and terror obviously work.
Destiny Petersen, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

Adolf Hitler may not have been a good man but he shares a
thought that many great men believed. Kings back in the old
timeswould have [rebels] killed in front of the whole town. The
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reason was if everyone feared [the King] then no one would rebel
against him. Terror and force are how Adolf Hitler got his
[power].
David Davis, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

Hitlers traits:
Adolf Hitler succumbed to the dark side of man. He used the
controlling powers of terror and force to rise to power in Germany
and then most of Europe. The irony is that he renounced reason in
his battle and based it entirely on power, greed, and hatred. By
saying that he could defeat reason, he admitted to his own
insanity.
The idea that terror and force can win over reason is best
illustrated in the history surrounding Adolf Hitler and World War
II. Hitlers quest for control of Europe used military force,
violence, and propaganda to terrorize and defeat his opponents.
Terror is used by radical groups today to attempt to influence
others. Such was the case in recent terrorist attacks.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

It seems, that when we put someone in power that is too rash, and
does not stop to think of the consequences of his actions, we end
up with disaster. For example, Adolf Hitler decided that pure
Germans were the perfect race of people and that those of Jewish
origin were the cause of all troubles for the German people.
Heattempted to eliminate all people who were of the Jewish
religion. He acted very brashly and did not think about what
repercussions these actions would bring about. The rest of the
world would not sit by and watch while he did away with a whole
race of people. Hitler thought that no one would be able to stop
him he wanted to, more or less, rule the world. He was prepared
to go to any lengths to accomplish this, not caring what or how
great the costs would be. When people such as Adolf Hitler are the
ones who rule over a country, we will surely end up with war and
destruction.
Stacey Jackson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

[This] quote was made by one of the most influential men in
history. He led an entire country into war and conquered most of
Europe. His power as a speaker and motivator is uncanny and
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cannot be denied. Not many people in today's society agree with
what he motivated but nonetheless, he was a great manipulator.
He could not have worded it any better. The only reason wars are
fought is because there is someone who believes they are superior
to the rest of humanity. Hitler used these thoughts to persuade the
rest of Germany and his neighbors to believe they were part of a
greater race. Had he not had the weapons to begin this war, the
fifty-five million people would have lived to see the rest of their
lives. Hitler had access to those weapons though, and those
people did not see their families grow.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Hitler wasborn on April 20
th
, 1889 in Austria. He dropped out
of school and went to Vienna hoping to be accepted into Vienna
Academy of Fine Arts, but didnt get accepted. He was a penniless
vagrant until the First World War started and he enlisted in the
German army. By 1921 Hitler had secured control of the National
Socialist German Workers Party (Nazi). He blamed the Jews and
Communists for letting Germany lose World War I. Hitler
received total [control] of Germany in 1933 by using one of his
ideas: The one means that wins the easiest victory over reason is
terror and force to terrorize all of Europe. Then, he tried to
exterminate all the Jews and other people that didnt have what he
called an Aryan background, but he was finally stopped by
military action in the spring of 1945.
Brian Whiteside, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Terror doesnt work:
Terror, unlike reason, never finds a balance with the world.
Therefore, terror is rejected and order resumes.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Many believe that war can only be prevented by not fearing it.
This is quite true, because if war is feared, then the weak-minded
people who fear it will be conquered. Those who do not fear war
and are ready to stand up for their basic human rights will not be at
the mercy of the wicked.
Matt Bodson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

104
Although many opinions are out there, only one has been proven
over and over. That opinion is that fear and terror will always
reign. Hitler said that the nation, group, or person, with the most
power to inflict fear has all the power and has already won the
war. Fear of force and weapons do dominate over reason, and
they always will.
Krista Hakeman, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

The World Trade Centers were a place of work for thousands.
Year after year, employees would return to labor as usual,
undoubtedly feeling safe within their walls. Rushing to work,
citizens worried about arriving late because of the traffic, but after
the terrorist attack, our worries focused on planes crashing into our
homes or place of business. The protection of America fell as the
walls of the trade center crumbled. The peace of our democracy
was overshadowed by the new threat of war. It was as though we
had returned to World War II In fact, Adolf Hitler once said,
The one means that wins the easiest victory over reason:
terror/and force. As a dictator, he shares many qualities with the
infamous terrorist, Osama bin Laden. Both lunatics philosophies
agree that terror can overcome reason. The world we live in is not
based on fear, hatred or control, but rather the freedom to choose.
Stephanie Schock, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Is Lindsey correct?
If Adolf Hitler could have seen from the point of view of anyone
of the innocent people that he killed, maybe he would have
realized that his way of doing things was wrong. Maybe if he
would have gotten to know one person before he killed them, his
perception of things might have changed. He only wanted to see
one type of person. The type of person that he thought was perfect.
The others he didn't care about and he didn't respect. He didn't
stop too see that the person underneath the imperfection was
probably a great person, or that the person had a whole lot in
common with him. He just didn't care.
Lindsey Schaffer, Kiona-Benton Highl, Benton City, Washington

Not scared:
Even though many horrid events have taken place within the past
few years, this statement can easily be proven wrong. Terror and
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force are only administered in those who posses a weak heart. The
strong are those who stand up for themselves and fight. America
is a good example of being strong. Instead of cowering in our
homes, Americans united together to fight against the terror
inflicted on our great nation.
Justin Bieberle, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

This statement is truly paradoxical. Even though terror and force
win victory over reason, the victory is short-lived. Reason takes
time, but as fears are eliminated, reason has time to set in. Fear is
only short-term, like force. Once fear and force are gone, people
begin to think for themselves and become more independent. The
Third Riech, Hitlers government, put fear in all that he ruled over.
Hitler encouraged his army to Have no pity! Act brutally!
Thousands of people that opposed Hitler were executed, and
hundreds of thousands were thrown into prison. Hitler also
persecuted the Jews. He removed and killed them from every
country that he controlled. These actions put fear in all under
Hitlers rule, but as time passed, people began to think for
themselves. People from many different countries pulled together
and overthrew this harsh dictator. Unable to cope with his own
terror and force, Hitler and his mistress committed suicide.
Matt Bodson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas


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Personal Reflections on Quotation #9



My dynamite will sooner lead to peace than a thousand
world conventions. As soon as men will find that in one
instant whole armies can be utterly destroyed, they surely
will abide by golden peace. Alfred Bernhard Nobel


I think that he is trying to say that no matter how hard people try
to make peace, no one listens unless someone uses force. When
people realize that many people can die in a matter of seconds,
maybe they will want world peace.
Ashleigh Swanson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Nobel thought that once people learned the power that dynamite
held, they would be terrified and rather than risking horrible
deaths by explosives that they would flee from it. Nobel was
wrong. When people learned the power that dynamite could
contain in one little stick, they went crazy over it and wanted the
power for themselves to hoard over others. The invention of
dynamite was just a stepping-stone to bigger and more
catastrophic weapons. Now countries of the world have nuclear
bombs. They use them with the full intent to kill as many people
and cause as much damage as possible, or they use them to
threaten enemy countries with the idea that the entire country
could be obliterated with the command to nuke them.
Casey York, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Kurt agrees with Casey:
Unfortunately, Mr. Nobel was utterly mistaken. The ability to
wipe out whole armies did not deter war; it only made it that much
worse. More men died in the wars of the twentieth century than in
all the wars of recorded history combined. The casualties of the
modern wars were also much more terrible than the wars of
previous centuries. Men were blown apart and maimed from
flying shrapnel. Since new weapons could kill so easily, much
larger armies were needed to assure victory, and many young
fighters were drafted into service in these modern wars. Nobels
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dynamite and other advancements in weapons only made the
worlds armies larger and the death toll of war higher and did not
bring about peace.
Kurt Olsen, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Nobels way of bringing about peace was to use the scare tactic;
let the opponents know that if they try anything unpeaceful, that
repercussions will be served and they themselves will be
annihilated. Unfortunately, Nobel states that everyone will abide
by golden peace after his threats. It seemed almost too ironic that
prizes for peace were set up in his name since he himself was
threatening people and countries and inventing such disastrous
dynamite.
Christa Fitch, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

This quote is a very good one, although, unfortunately, not as true
as Nobel perhaps had hoped. Men still fight, and nations are no
longer scared of dynamite. True, individuals are still afraid
when faced with a weapon, and nations are anxious about atomic
weapons, but still, even now, we fight one another. Dynamite did
not bring peace, as Nobel had hoped. Unfortunately, Nobel
simply opened a door for humans to discover more destructive
weapons. Now humans merely fight one another with bigger and
more deadly weapons, such as the atomic bomb.
Krista Hakeman, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

John thinks Nobels point is still valid:
After the many advances in the militarys weapons of mass
destruction, dynamite is a little outdated, but [Alfred Nobels]
quote definitely is not. Nuclear weapons could lead to peace just
by being a deterrent towar.
John Witt, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Lindsey sees it as Nobel intended  an attempt to keep peace.
I find Nobels quote very true. It is not a good idea to threaten,
yet it is a good idea to try to keep peace in our world.
Lindsey DeArman, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma



108
A good try that didnt succeed:
Alfred Nobeldeveloped a safe way to handle nitroglycerin, and
he produced explosives called dynamite. Nobel created many
factories to manufacture the explosives, and with the money he
created from the factories, he established the yearly Nobel prizes
for [promoting peace].
Nobel believed that with his dynamite, he would create world
peace. He thought that the fear of destruction and death would
scare people into peace. But history shows that people are willing
to fight in spite of death. For example, the kamikaze air fighters
of Japan would go to battle knowing they were going to die. The
same goes for the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center. The
hijackers knew they were going on a suicide mission, but it did not
stop them. Weapons are not the way to bring about world peace,
because people are willing to die for something they believe in.
Michelle Pressly, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

In short, war has many negative results and is the ultimate waste
of lives, money, economy, and environment. What is war possibly
accomplishing that will benefit our society or our country? The
world would be much more beneficial and a greater place to live if
only we could all live by golden peace. Will our nation ever
realize the innumerable benefits of peace?
Shane Brewer, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

A good point is presented by Mr. Nobel; power and fear rule over
all. We conform to whomever or whatever is most powerful out
of fear for our own lives. Conventions and compromises may
eventually lead to peace over time, but immediate peace can only
be met by means of force and instilling fear in the opponent. Men
in dispute are put in a situation where they must choose between
their pride and their continuance in life. For example, not every
person under rule of that Taliban is following willingly. Most are
hiding their oppositions out of fear because the Taliban has such
great power. It is so sad that power can confine a man's pride,
overthrow moral righteousness, and delegate a way of life.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Alfred Nobelbelieved that large weapons would bring about
peace. They were very wrong. Those weapons of mass destruction
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only made war all the more gruesome. Weapons cannot bring a
lasting peace. True peace does not come from the threat of
destruction. That peace is only an intermission in the
violence. The buildup of weapons only gives the opportunity for a
small incident to cause a massive loss of life. Peace cannot come
from pointing guns and voicing threats. Real and lasting peace
can only come from communication, compromise, and respect.
Kurt Olsen, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

This is the belief of Alfred Bernhard Nobel, and I think his
statement is very true. [Mr. Nobel] is saying that all the
conventions throughout time have gotten us nowhere. [We must]
understand that it only takes oneexplosive shell to destroy
manylives and when we understand that, there will be peace.
World conventions are just a false sense of security that make
people think everything is going to be just fine. The press
[releases] do not hit home like thousands of soldiers and civilians
being killed. If taking away innocent lives is what it takes to
achieve world peace, I guess we will have to learn from our
mistakes. The moment men realize that it just takes one bomb to
leave behind everything that they love in life, is the time men will
conclude that there is a way around having to die to get peace.
Kirk Inslee, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

The nation, group, or person with the most and biggest weapons
wins (World Peace, 1). Nobels idea was that, through fear, men
would try to come to terms and live in peace with one another.
Krista Hakeman, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Alfred Nobel, instigator of the famed Nobel Peace Prize, believed
in peace through strength. He thought weapons of mass
destruction would be such a deterrent people would be afraid to
start a war.
Amber Wright, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Although warfare was not its intended use, Nobel could not
ignore the influence dynamite would have on human conflicts.
His view, however, was optimistic. Clearly, he thought that fear
of the destructive power of dynamite was enough to prevent men
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from provoking the use of it.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

I do not agree with Nobel. He wants people to use weapons like
dynamite to scare the rest of world into peace. However, the
weapons should only be used in critical situations. If it takes a
thousand world conventions to bring the world to peace, then so be
it. At least that would not be mass killing of people and armies of
other countries. That is not bringing peace to the world; instead, it
is bringing more war.
Dustin Hern, Medicine Lodge High School, Medicine Lodge,
Kansas
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Personal Reflections on Quotation #10


To kill a man will be considered as disgusting [in the
twentieth century] as we in this day consider it disgusting
to eat one. Andrew Carnegie 1900

I think what Andrew [Carnegie] was trying to say was that he
believes the world will be entirely at peace by the end of the
twentieth century, and that he hopes that even the thought of
killing another human being is disgusting in everyones eyes. I
wish that this quote was true, but as any American knows, it is not.
Our country has been through many battles since this quote was
spoken in the late 1800s. Even now, in the year 2001, America is
faced with hatred. Andrew [Carnegie] had only one belief. It
was faith in the ability of individuals to better themselves and thus
the society in which they live. If more people thought this same
way, maybe we would not be in the predicament we are in today.
If we, as a human race, would strive to better ourselves maybe we
could live in a more peaceful world, a world that does not separate
each country but tries to bring us together as one.
Carrie Anderson, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Andrew Carnegie was an optimist. He believed that the act of
murder would become taboo in the twentieth century. But now in
the twenty-first century there are people all over the world who
kill each other. Some of them even feel no remorse because they
think its their duty to their god to kill people who are keeping
them down. People become so obsessed with their own blind
hatred that they dont realize the potential good that could come
from their lives. Instead, the hatred takes control of their lives and
they want to solve the problem with weapons.
Casey York, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Obviously we do not consider it disgusting to kill someone as
Carnegie put it. Wars are still going on. People are still being
killed every day, every second. Andrew Carnegie probably said
this in hopes that things would be different in centuries to come,
but they have not changed.
Cassie Condley, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma
112
Andrew Carnegie,in 1900[assumed] the world would
progress further then it has today. We still kill but in a far different
manner than known in the days of Andrew Carnegie. Killing a
man outside of a military war is considered disgusting, but killing
a man in war is justifiable. When killing a man during a military
war, it is no longer done face to face. It is possible that a person
may be half a world away and still be responsible for killing
hundreds of men. Today there is such great technology that makes
this possible.
Kallin Anderson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Obviously,Carnegie was wrong:
Carnegie thought that in the future people would think that it is
wrong to kill others, in fact he thought the notion of killing
another person would never cross anyones mind in the twentieth
century. Well, obviously he was wrong. Today there are more
murders and deaths than there ever was. It is so bad today that a
person walking down the street could get shot just so someone
could have a new pair of shoes. No, Andrew [Carnegie] was not
even close with his prediction.
Dustin Sievers, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Cannibalism is an [unacceptable] way of life for Americans and
with good reason. Perhaps those who see cannibalism otherwise
could acceptmurder and war. [Or perhaps] there are those who
find the consumption of a human being to be immoral [could]
agree with war. [P]eople are just as responsible for war and
violence today as they were in the nineteenth century. But
whether or not it is ethical to kill a person in the name of war, is
still questionable in the [twenty-first century].
Christa Fitch, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Unlike what Andrew thought life would be, it seems as if a
human life is worth nothing today.
Carrie Anderson, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Good idea
This is a powerful idea from an influential person in his time. It
was his hope that killing be viewed in as horrific a light as
consumption of human flesh. This image is revolting, but it
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supports an ideal that it should be a goal to strive for. The
destruction of human life should be the ultimate wrong; so horrific
that people would rather die than kill another human being.
Rachel Mohr, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

For years, the answer to problems was to call for war, but does
war really solve the problems and provide peace? Surely everyone
considers eating another human being to be wrong, and to
Carnegie, killing a person was just as bad.
Amber Wright, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

I like this statement because [Carnegie] realizes that people are
getting desensitized to killing everyday. He knows that people
today are going to be so used to death that when it does happen, it
wont even make them think that someone like themselves just had
their life taken from them. I think that if Andrew [Carnegie] were
a leadertoday he would make it a point to try and change
peoples thoughts about death.
Robert Gray, Kiona-Benton Highl, Benton City, Washington

A different interpretation:
Carnegie seems to be implying that murder was an unjust and
unacceptable crime years ago. He explains that today our world
sees murder from a totally different perspective. In 2001, a single
terrorist can manipulate others into killing thousands of people and
not feel a single bit of remorse for his repulsive actions. Bin Laden
shattered the hearts of many people in many different countries
when he deliberately set up a pre-meditated murder plot to kill
thousands of innocent people. The everyday lives and the feeling
of peace Americans used to experience has now been altered
forever.
Robin Long, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Since this comment was made, the United States has been
involved in seven war-related conflicts. The Spanish-American
War, World War I, World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam
War, the Gulf War, and the recent war on terrorism have all
involved heartless, excruciating death. Therefore, killing a man is
proven to not be as disgusting as Carnegie thought it would be.
Over 670 thousand men and women have perished in war since
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1900. At the time of Carnegies statement, the United States was
involved in the Spanish-American War in which 2,446 people
died, which is the smallest amount of fatalities in any U.S. war.
However, Carnegie was naive to future inventions and innovations
that technology would bring. With the new weapons of World War
I in 1917 and 1918, the death count rose. Since then death counts
have continued to rise.
Though incorrect with his predictions, Carnegie was a
spectacular businessman. Dubbed the master of steel, he was the
leader of American industry in the early 1900s. He boasted that he
was smart enough to surround himself with men far cleverer than
himself. Though many people applied the Darwinist theory that
competition exists in situations where the fittestthe strongest,
most clever, and most efficientsurvive, Andrew Carnegie was
not as brilliant in his thoughts concerning death in the future as in
his business enterprises.
Kali Davis,Valley Springs High School, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Carnegie may have meant that it is morally wrong and unjust to
kill a human being. Cannibalism is considered to be disgusting
and in his opinion it is just as disgusting to kill a person out of
anger or for revenge or even in war. Carnegie has an excellent
point. The United States needs to come up with a plan that can
reduce the cause of terrorist attacks and war.
Christina Getman, Valley Springs Highl, Valley Springs, Arkansas
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Personal Reflections on Quotation #11


"We must have military power to keep madmen from
taking over the world." Billy Graham

I do agree that we need some form of superior power to keep
everyone in line. [We] see it in the animal kingdom all the time.
Turkeys have a pecking order to eat. Lions get to eat the food
before the lionesses, and the bigger bucks let the [smaller] ones
know where they belong. Billy Graham may be right that we need
a military, but we know that in times of trouble we need a bigger
power to control the radical few.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Billy Graham then made it clear that we must maintain a strong
military to keep the world in order. War only increases ones will
for peace.
Brian Baskerville, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

To me the above quote means that it would be great to not have
to have the military powers: Navy, Army, National Guard,
Marines, etc., but we have to have them. Even if we [disarmed],
someone somewhere would still have a military or begin to create
[one]. Think of todays crisis. Where would we be without our
military power? Would Bin Laden have taken over the United
States? The military does so much and is almost taken for
granted. What would have happened during WWII if Hitler were
the only person who had a military? We probably wouldn!t be
here and Hitler would be running the world. I agree with the
author. There are way too many crazy people everywhere to not
have military power to prevent them from taking over the world.
Jamie Thompson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

I believe that without military power the world would be
complete chaos. When Hitler attempted to take over the world
he was stopped by military power. As long as each country
takes its own responsibility there should be no fear of a madman
taking over. There are many madmen in the world today. The
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concept that controls themis the fear of military power.
Stacy Gobbler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

[Billy Graham] is right, for there is always the one that thinks it is
ok to kill and desires something that someone else has. If the
United States has no military to protect itself, then it is just asking
to be taken over. The problem is that with military, there is always
going to be fighting. So its like a never-ending circle. The United
States armed forces cannot be eliminated to help promote world
peace, because then the United States will be eliminated too.
Dustin Sievers, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

This statement can be directly related to what has happened
recently with the September 11 attacks. The United States found
itself in somewhat of an odd position that day. But everyone knew
that we, the United States would not crumble like the terrorists
wanted us to do. Instead, we became unitedto overcome this
great tragedy. It all starts with the president and the military. The
United Stateshas the largest and most technologically powerful
military in the world. these forces can overcome any terrorists
that try [to destroy] our society.
Sara Larsen, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

[We need] a strong system of defenseto insure peace and safety
for the people of the United States. One of our most inspirational
leadersBilly Graham, knows that this is what our country
needs. Any country could be attackedat any time. It doesnt
matter if they are a well-respected country or not. Without its
military power, who knows where the UnitedStates would be
today.
Jason Ripke, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

On the other hand:
It will make people think twice about trying to take over a
country with a powerful military, but it wont prevent all attacks
from outside enemies. Just look at what happened on September
11, 2001. The U.S has one of the most powerful militaries in the
world and still got attacked. Hijackers ran two jets into the World
Trade Center towers. Eventually the two towers came crashing to
the ground. But I think a powerful military is a good thing to
117
have because it stops many of the attacks that would otherwise
happen.
Aaron Bland, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Still another point of view:
Romeo and Juliet, written by William Shakespeare, is a form of
literature that in some ways relates to Billy Graham's statement.
The story of these two star crossed lovers is not about a madman,
but merely about two young teens who dared to change their
families lives as they knew it. The Montague's and the Capulet's
were families that were sworn enemies for generations. They did
not associate with one another let alone fall in love with each
other. Romeo and Juliet however went against their families and
fell in love. This caused a big war between the two families, and
disrupted the calm streets. In the end of this tragedy, the two
lovers kill themselves because that is the only way they can have
their love and be together. The story is not about a madman, or
military power that has to stop him, but it is a story that shows
what happened to society when you try to disrupt the world, as we
know it.
Andrea Ulk, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

There are thousands of crazed Afghan men that think that
Americans should not live freely. We must use military
action[although] I wish that this matter could be solved in a
more peaceful manner. For now though, we must fight back. I
would like to know whom these terrorists think they are
tellinghow [to] live. They think that they are better than we are
because they have stricter rules and our government lets us be
free. We dont like the way that the [Taliban] is governing
Afghanistan. We arent flying planes into buildings in their
country. We arent purposely killing thousands of innocent
Afghan civilians just because we dont like the way that they live.
It is sad that these people have not yet learned that
the best way to live would be in peace.
Dillon Zachara, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

On Monday, September 10
th
, people were fighting against
praying in schools. On Tuesday, the 11
th
, one would have been
hard pressed to find a school where someone was not praying. In
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every city, every county, and every state across the country,
people stopped and prayed. Hand in hand, on Tuesday, not one
thought of separating each other by race, sex, color or creed. How
ironic then is it to have Billy Graham, one of the greatest
evangelists known, say We must have military power to keep
madmen from taking over the world. After this world-boggling
attack, people joined together to fight this catastrophe simply with
love, prayer, and understanding. It seems strange to me that an
icon of religious freedom in our nation would choose to support
the belief of needing violent force to conquer terrorism. I
understand that military power is indeed important, but it is not the
key in defeating terrorism.
Stephanie Schock, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Another great example of needing to have military power is the
recent New York City crisis. The Islam extremists that were
responsible for those acts were crazy. They won't stop if there is
nothing stopping them such as our U.S. Military. Also if there is
no military in our country the Islam extremists or any other
terrorists that are just a little afraid of being hunted down and
killed for their acts won't be and they will do as they pleasewe
would have nobody to protect our freedom and our rights as
Americans.
Brian Flores, Kiona-Benton Highl, Benton City, Washington

On alert:
We need to protect ourselves from countries that do not
particularly like us, such as Iraq and Afghanistan. President Bush
wants to start building nuclear weapons again because we have
reason to believe that some Russian scientists have sold plans that
tell how to build nuclear weapons to certain third world
countries.
Crystal Nelson, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

As Billy Graham said, our military power has to be strong
enough to keep madmen from taking over the world. Military is
important because if it was not for our military power terrorist
would have already taken over the USA. The USA has the most
military power in the world. We could go to any other
country and invade it. Then that country could be ours. That is not
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what the USA is about, though. We believe in being powerful, but
we do not unnecessarily put others lives at risk.
James W. Pearce, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

Billy Grahambelieves that America must have a strong military
to stop others from taking advantage of the free world. His words
are still meaningful today. Even after the collapse of the Soviet
Union, America must be on guard to protect the world and the
peace in a way that we see fit. Grahams words have bearing
because he is a respected preacher: The Pope of Protestant
America. He is deeply rooted in basic Christian beliefs of what is
right but also has political influence. He acts to influence
government with his beliefs and assure his followers' trust in what
the government is doing.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Andy and Sara are not so sure:
This quote expresses Grahams opinions on war and military at
the same time. Military power leads to war. You can see this in
World War I and throughout time. In my opinion, military power
can only cause more madmen to seek power than before.
Andy Irwin, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

The question is, does military power stop the madmen? In some
situations, it does seem to have some impact on these strongly
opinionated individuals. Sometimes, in other situations, military
power is not necessary. Instead of killing these madmen, we
need to make them understand that everyone differs, and that is
just part of life.
Sara Curry, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

As important as wisdom is when fighting an enemy, military
strength is also essential to protecting the freedoms we have. War
is a sad reality in the world we live in, but history has proven the
side with the strongest military force almost always takes the
victory. America has been blessed with strength and wisdom as we
fight against terrorism in Afghanistan. The United States has some
of the most sophisticated weaponry in the world. Through the use
of surveillance aircraft, laser guided bombs, attack submarines,
stealth bombers, and Tomahawk missiles; we are definitely a force
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to be reckoned with. Even though Billy Graham is a conservative
Christian who believes in love and forgiveness, he still
understands the cruel logistics of war.
Chelsi Winborne, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Billy Graham is saying that in order to keep the evildoers in our
world from being successful, we need to have a military power
capable of stopping them. I agree with Billy Graham. Terrorists
are gaining more knowledge every year. Therefore, we need a
group of people with the ability to face these madmen in a state of
emergency.
Kirk Inslee, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Dustin is critical:
The United States evidently was not prepared for the September
11
th
attack. We have the strongest military power in the world,
and we couldnt even contain a few terrorists from sneaking in the
back door. We should have been aware that they wouldnt hit us
head on, but we were blinded by our own power. We cannot afford
to let terrorists continue to act as they have in the world if we
intend to maintain world peace. The terrorists just keep getting
stronger and more intelligent.
Dustin Hern, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Other students found fault with Billy Grahams statement:
Billy Graham!s faith should be strong enough to believe that God
has the power to change a madman into a good man.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

I think that we can retain madmen without military force. We can
do it with negotiation. In some cases, though, military force is
needed. In the case involving the Taliban, military force is
required because they are not [open to] negotiations. The Taliban
has no compassion; they cowardly hide in their own country while
thousands of their fellow men are killed by military force.
Justin Shelite, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Justin is dissapointed by reverend Grahams remarks:
Christianity preaches keeping peace instead of war at all costs.
So, Graham saying that military force is needed to keep peace in
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the world is totally off base from Christian morals. It is
disheartening as a Christian to hear such a religious icon preach
hypocrisy.
Justin Shelite, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

William, on the other hand, sees no hypocrisy in Grahams
statement:
Sometimes the right thing to do is not always the obvious as is
the situation with whether war or peace is better. Morally peace
would by the better of the two, but could morals [survive] in a
world without war to sometimes enforce the moral standpoint? If
World War II had not been fought, who would have stopped Hitler
from murdering all the Jews and creating a supreme race? If we
did not wage war on terrorists, then the acts that took place on
September 11 might and probably would have been repeated. [As
Billy Graham said,] We must have military power to keep
madmen from taking control of the world. As far, back as the
ancient Greeks all the way to present times wars have been waged.
Military forces are essential to any country that wishes its citizens
to live peaceful and relatively fear-free lives. If every country in
the world dropped its military, who would stop the terrorists and
lunatics from overthrowing governments? Military forces are
sometimes used to control radical citizen who go off the deep end
with their beliefs.
William Davis, Valley Springs High, V alley Springs, Arkansas

Most students have no problem reconciling military strength
with their beliefs:
Grahams statement means that if a good nations military is
strong, then it will be able to stop an army like Hitlers from
dominating the world. I agree with Graham in this statement and
point to the recent War on Terrorism as an example. If the
United States had decided to lay down arms in golden peace a year
ago, what shape would we be in at present? In World War II, if the
United States had not been able to save Europe through war, then
Europe might still be enslaved under the cruel and
hateful Nazi regime.
Wesley Robinson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

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America has proven itself to be a great and powerful nation.
Although many lives were lost, the American people united and
supported the military throughout the recent attacks on the
American people. As long as the possibility exists that terrorism
may be prevented or perpetrators brought to justice by means of
law enforcement activity, economic sanction, or other legal means,
these options should be examined and employed to the fullest
reasonable extent. With the military studying the patterns of
terrorists attacks, the leaders of the countries of the world will be
able to recognize and possibly predict and stop terrorist attacks.
Although the world will never be at peace, the only way to come
close, many people believe, is by military power.
Amanda Still, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Many people have tried to take over the world. This is why Billy
Graham, a modern evangelist, says, we must have military power
to keep madmen from taking over the world. We also need
military force to protect our country from madmen like Osama
Bin Laden. He tried to start a holy war with the most powerful
nation in the world by orchestrating the destruction of the World
Trade Center, American Embassies in Africa, and the USS Cole.
Brian Whiteside, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

[Billy Graham] meant that the military must step in and fight to
oppose madmen like Adolf Hitler and Osama bin Laden.
Lacey Gross, Valley Springs High School, Valley Springs,
Arkansas
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Personal Reflections on Quotation #12

To preserve peace, we need weapons of smaller and men
of larger caliber Unknown Author

With the knowledge and advanced technology that the world has
obtained over the years, it is easy for the individuals in command
to ignore the peaceful acts of reconciliation. The confidence our
countries have in our troops, fighter planes, bombs, ammunition,
and nuclear weapons is overwhelming. If we did not have the asset
of all of these weapons, more talking and less fighting and killing
of innocent civilians would occur.
Robin Long, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

This quote makes complete sense, since in history class I never
read about a time period when there was not a single war going on
somewhere in the world. It seems that the planet revolves more
around war than it does the sun. When I hear the word war, I
begin to think of planes flying overhead dropping bombs, innocent
people running from big explosions both in the air and on the
ground, and many suffering for the decisions of a few.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Use diplomacy and compromise:
In an instant I knew that this was something that I agree with.
Many times in the past, our country has fought wars and won them
because of smart decisions made by people in high places. These
men stood up for their country and they put themselves on the line
for their countrys future. My interpretation of this quote is that
the people have to be bigger than the weapons and the war and
find peace through diplomatic relations. If our people cant do
that, or wont do that, then our country and the rest of the world is
going to have a hard time surviving.
Rachyl Burnham-Roach, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, WA

I believe that the author is right; people are generally too willing
to use weapons as the answer to problems. If people were more
concerned about peace and the repercussions of their actions, they
would be more careful with weapons. After the attacks on the
United States on September 11, 2001, the United States tried to
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compromise with the enemy before retaliating with bombs. The
purpose of weapons is to take life. Death is not a solution to
preserving peace; diplomacy and compromise are solutions for
preserving peace.
Laura Stonesifer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

If you have many mass destruction weapons this may stop the
war because the other side is afraid of you, but if someone really
wants the war to be ended they need high caliber men working the
peace tables. This is the best way to get the war to end.
Eric Foss, Kiona-Benton High School, Benton City, Washington

The unknown author is so intelligent because he/she looked down
deep at the world and saw that people needed to grow up and
handle their problems in a responsible manner. [People] need to
throw the bombs, guns, and tanks away, and start talking their
problems out. They also need to get off their pedestal and
compromise a little bit in order to achieve a better life for all
people living in the world. If the United States starts talking, then
our society will obtain the men of larger caliber and weapons of
smaller caliber.
Jared Daniel, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

There are much better ways to solve a conflict than to use force,
such as putting men of greater caliber in power and using
diplomacy instead of force to reach an agreement. I agree that
there are times, however, when force may be needed to put a stop
to something, as in the case of Adolf Hitler and his attempted
genocide, but those times are few.
Stacey Jackson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

This person is telling us that there is no need for the huge
weapons with the ability to destroy whole countries. If we have
men in power who are of larger caliber, meaning they can use
diplomacy to resolve conflicts, it will be easier to preserve peace
throughout the world. There will still be conflicts, as there is no
way to avoid such confrontations, but maybe the outcome of these
conflicts will be a little less destructive.
Stacey Jackson, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

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Diplomacy is not a new idea:
Instead of saying we need larger weapons to stop war, it says we
need smarter and wiser men to stop war. At times, a statement like
this would be known as un-American or passive. This kind of
thinking was shunned, but soon new ideas swept through our
country. This is what the world eventually came to believe during
the cold war. The nuclear bomb prevented any major war between
the Soviet Union and the United States. Once the nations knew
that their problems could not be solved by getting bigger weapons,
they started trying to solve problem with their words. The phrase
actions speak louder than words is not always true. In most
cases, words cause greater results than anything else does. Though
the author of this quote is unknown, everyone should know this
quotes outstanding thoughts.
Andy Irwin, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Peace is a fragile concept. It is extremely easy for it to fall to
pieces. Those who wage war must be prepared for all possible
outcomes. At times, history has demonstrated that it is easier to
wage war than to maintain peace.Peace means confronting a
problem and trying to make a compromise. It can be hard to accept
the fact that there is a problem, much less how to solve it.
Negotiations can become an extended process that points blame at
someone. That may be why some people are reluctant to give
peace a chance. War, on the other hand, is easy. Fighting for
vengeance or justice could be a simpler solution than a
negotiation.
Beth King, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Although the author of this eminent quote is unknown, I believe
he meant people all over the world must put away their ungodly
weapons to be able to look at the big picture. Millions across the
globe have united as one to reach hope with their prayers. On
September 10
th
we thought we were secure, but on September 11
th
,
we learned the bitter reality. Americans realized we held no
weapon that could destroy the evil lurking of mens mind.
Stephanie Schock, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas



126
Responsibility will preserve peace:
When I read this, I got the impression that the author was trying
to say that we need to use weapons less, and that man, (man as in
society), needs to step up and take responsibility. If this is what the
author is saying, then I agree completely. When people are talking
about something and someone is wrong, then he or she needs to
admit it. If they make a mistake or do a bad deed, than they need
to be accountable for their own actions.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

If all men/women were more open-minded and better people all
around the world, I know that there would be fewer wars and
fewer conflicts. The reason we have so many conflicts is because
when shallow people disagree, they refuse to try and see the
[other] personspoint of view. War and fighting is the last
way people should solve their conflicts. People should be able to
talk things out, and agree to disagree. Instead of trying to find a
solution, these people thrive on fighting, and are determined to
show everyone that they are right, when reallyeveryone is right
in different ways for different reasons. I think that if people
really want peace in the world, then they should put some real
effort into it by just being a good person everyday.
Lindsey Schaffer, Kiona-Benton Highl, Benton City, Washington

When speaking in terms of the guns, a smaller caliber would
mean a smaller barrel, therefore a smaller gun. When speaking in
terms of men, we need to have larger leadership abilities. We
need to put down the weapons and be the better man for it. We
need to be the men of larger caliber.
Sarah Miles, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

To preserve peace  walk away  but not now!
The United States needs to be the first country to step forward, as
an example for other countries, by finding ways to help humans
instead of destroying them. Too often weapons are used to
express the opinions of a person. People need to become the
bigger part of the conflict at hand. The larger the weapons get, the
less the people are involved. In everyday life there is always
someone mad at another person. A weapon such as a gun is not
necessarily used against the person, but words are. The actions
127
that a people use to get revenge are not always right. If one of the
people would simply walk away; that would make them a larger
caliber. There are times when a country cannot walk away. The
recent events on September 11
th
.
Stacy Gobbler, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

Retaliation does not preserve peace:
Producing mass nuclear weapons will not prevent wars. It will
not stop countries from attacking a peaceful, powerful
country. September 11, 2001, proved to the United States that no
matter how strong a country might believe they are, everyone is
still vulnerable. Just because the United States has one of the most
powerful military defense systems on the face of the Earth, it did
not stop terrorists from finding a way to threaten national security
by flying planes into the World Trade Center Towers and the
Pentagon on that fateful day. Just as expected, the United States
answered back with bombing and more violence in hope to bring
justice to those who were suspected of terrorizing the U.S. The
United States answered violence with more violence, fighting fire
with fire. With good intentions, the U.S. bombed Afghanistan, but
what will happen when they decide to answer back? Who knows
what they are really capable of? Bombing other countries is not a
smart way to promote national security. It only incites feelings of
extreme revenge in the countries being bombed. War is a
continuing circle of death and destruction. Will there be an end in
the next World War before it goes to far? The answer is unsure.
Emily Koster, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

To preserve peace  we must look inside ourselves:
Each generation is presented with the goal to live up to their
potential and to strive for peace. In order to have peace, people
need to be willing to compromise and to be humble. In many
cases, people just want the credit [they believe] is due them, and
they think that their idea is the only way. That causes anger from
people who are on the other side of the argument and rifts are
formed. Peace does not derive from rifts.
The world is now at war. People all over the world want peace
but if the world is to be at peace theoppressors (like the
Taliban), and all other terrorists must be stopped. In Israel, many
of the Palestinians only weapons are big rocks or clubs and yet
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they can disrupt the peace. In Afghanistan, Taliban militia rode
horses into battle against the Americans who have tanks. No
matter what weapon a man has, it can cause destruction; but the
character behind the user makes it either effective or a failure.
Now men must once again strive for peace by using weapons of
large caliber against the terrorists that plague the world. The world
can only hope that once peace is attained that the men with the
larger caliber weapons will look inside themselves and find that
the larger caliber must be found within and only then can true and
lasting peace be achieved.
Casey York, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

People need to expel their hatred, greed, and petty differences
and become individuals of greater character. The primitive
obsession with amassing large amounts of weapons is especially
dangerous today when nuclear, biological, and chemical weapons
can create unimaginable chaos. With every weapon mankind
creates, the probability that he will use it greatly increases.
Jared Downey, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

The reason for [tempestuous] times isnt necessarily because we
need men of larger caliber, but more so because we need men of
broader understanding. A man can be of the highest caliber but
still lack the skills needed to understand our fellow man and
respect him enough that compromise is desired over violence.
Unfortunately, in a world of wide diversity including opinion,
religion, and morals, it is very difficult to arrange every being on
the same level of thought. However, in a society such as ours,
caliber is something that everyone can improve on. Possibly
caliber instilled in the men of today will develop a better, more
understanding man tomorrow.
Dana Deem, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

This quote is quite profound because it reminds us that weapons
cannot and never will have the ability to bring ultimate peace. The
secret to healing the world around us involves character, not
cruelty. As America fights the war against terrorism, it is evident
that we have not sacrificed our values. According to
CBSnews.com, the United Nations Population Fund has asked for
$4.5 million in emergency relief for Afghan refugees, and
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humanitarian efforts continue to drop food and supplies to the
severely war-torn nation. It seems ironic that in the midst of
tragedy, America still demonstrates compassion toward others.
Although the person who made this quote is unknown, I consider
him or her very wise. It appears that he or she understands the
realities of being human and knows the actual basis for peace is
integrity. I agree with this quote because without men of wisdom
and integrity, chaos would inevitably prevail.
Chelsi Winborne, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

The unknown author of this quote was trying to say that we need
to negotiate instead of wage war. If we have better men that have
better hearts, we will not need larger weapons because our world
would always remain in peace. In our world today, if this thought
was applied, these dastardly deeds of terrorism that occurred on
September 11 may have not occurred and America would not have
to use military force to protect our country.
Justin Shelite, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Although we do not know who wrote this or when it was written,
the author probably meant that the prestigious and powerful
leaders of the world need to come together and make compromises
instead of initializing the now too common trend of war and
hostility towards other countries. This quote also ties into the
devastating occurrences on September 11
th
. Osama Bin Laden has
definitely not proven himself as a man of larger caliber. His
actions only led to more violence and terror towards mankind.
Robin Long, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

This statement made me think about what peace is really
about. My whole life I thought that as long as we had big weapons
to protect us then nothing could hurt us, but when I read this it
made me think of what we really need. As long as we have men of
larger caliber, or men that have more mental and moral excellence,
we wont need all of those big weapons.
Josh Corriell, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

We rely too heavily on powerful weapons to solve problems,
instead of trying to get to the root of the problem. We hide behind
these weapons be they man-made or other humans. We are
130
afraid to confront our enemies without security through arms
because we have not invested our time and resources in anything
else. Mahatma Gandhi is a prime example of how much humans
could accomplishwithout a single act of violence.
Bendan McElroy, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

Get Real!
I believe that the author of this quote meant we need men to step
up and not fight over all their petty differences and we wouldn't
need all the weapons. I kind of disagree with this statement
because the author said we, as in the United States, needs the
bigger men. It wouldn't help. As in the case of the Cuban Missile
Crisis. Cuba had all the right materials and nuclear weapons to
destroy America. But we also had all the right weapons, power,
and counter weapons to deter them from doing so. Just by talking
to our enemies and asking them not to shoot us over a cup of
coffee won't work any more. Today [if] we were to try and talk
it out and not have the power to back up what we are saying our
enemies would laugh in our face and destroy us.
Brian Flores, Kiona-Benton High, Benton City, Washington

"This [was] said by an unknown person but whoever said it was
very right. Weapons do not end the attacks and the death. At the
end of each war there are treaties that are signed. These treaties are
writtenby people who are well educated and intelligent. If these
people were to have discussed differences before a war, then the
whole situation would have been avoided. Weapons need to be put
away, and the common sense all humans have, needs to be brought
out of the cabinets and used more often. Force will get us
nowhere.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

New motto for the United Nations?
In June of 1945, fifty countries signed the charter that
established a new peacekeeping organization, the United Nations.
In the last fifty-seven years, the United Nations has helped
millions of people as well as brought peace to many countries at a
much lower human cost than explosives. Furthermore, members
of the UN have signed several treaties in an attempt to reduce
nuclear power. Although the author is unknown, the quote, to
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preserve peace, we need weapons of smaller and men of larger
caliber, could be the official motto of the UNs operations in the
twentieth century.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Blair finds that the pen is mightier than the sword:
In most cases, I tend to agree with this quote. What I think the
author was trying to say is that in order to have peace, we must
have strong men. Only the author wasnt talking about physically
strong men. The author was talking about mentally strong men,
those who show bravery and courage through their words and not
their actions. They are men who do not need weapons. Their
implement of war is their seat of passion, their heart.
I can compare this to a simple girly fight in my own life. If
those who are fighting have enough heart to work their problems
out through talking and discussion, their fights usually conclude in
peace. However, the only statement accomplished through
physical fights is an even stronger hate toward one another. One
quote from Peace Pilgrim found on the Internet states that, This is
the way of peace: Overcome evil with good, falsehood with truth,
and hatred with love. If it is peace that is desired, sometimes the
best way to come about it is to lay down the weapons and sort our
differences out through worthy words.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Weapons of great power destroy peace:
Although this author is unknown, I think this quote [originated]
during the time of the Cold War. During this period, many men
were trying to [assume] dictatorshipsWeapons of mass
destruction were created during this period of time. Weapons, that
if given the chance, could destroy every living creature on the
earth. The creation of these weapons was very costly to many of
the countries involved. Economies were destroyed because
dictators were spending the money that should have been spent on
the people of the country on the creation of new artillery. If a
country has superior weapons over other countries, they have a
better chance of winning wars. This keeps people in power
motivated to build new weapons of greater caliber. The author
believed that if these weapons were not created, then the people in
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power would not be as prone to try to overthrow another
country. It is my belief that weapons of great power
are what destroy peace.
Nick Ricke, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Understand one another:
This simply implies that we do not need to keep inventing and
producing larger weapons. For centuries now, countries have
competed with one another to be the most powerful nation in the
world. In that process, weapons have become more powerful and
more deadly then ever before. This malicious process should stop.
Instead, we should focus on raising people of higher quality. Peace
preservation is not found on the battlefield; rather, it is found in
the negotiation room. Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, Peace,
like charity, begins at home.To raise people of higher quality,
mankind must concentrate on educating the young people about all
races and nationalities. This would aid in bridging the education
gap between many nations.
Roger Seiler, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Benjamin simplifies:
At first, newer and better weapons were the most important
things needed to win a war, but as some people see it, its the
people we need to reinvent.
Benjamin Haley Gibson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

133
Personal Reflections
Quotation #13



History teaches us that when a barbarian race confronts
a sleeping culture, the barbarian always wins.
Arnold Toynbee

[Arnold Toynbees] quotation about the sleeping culture and the
barbarian race is concluded from the many civilizations he visited
when he
was alive.
Cody White, Valley Springs High l, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Most students were unwilling to concede victory to the
barbarian:
Not every time the barbarian will win. They might win a battle
but they might not win the whole war. Take the attack on Pearl
Harbor for an example. Japan might have won that battle but they
didnt win the war. Just because the sleeping culture does not
know what hit them at the time, a strong sleeping culture will be
able to come back from an attack even harder. Take the attack
on the Twin Towers and the Pentagon for example. At first we
just thought that it was an accidental crash until the next two
crashes and a hijack occurred. The terrorism on the United States
has made the country stronger and more has a whole, making the
United States a bigger task to overcome. So just because a
barbarian race attacks a sleeping culture does not guarantee a
definite win for the barbarian race.
Tara Fisher, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

The barbarian is bin Laden and his terrorist group, Al Qaida.
The United States [with its] cant touch us [attitude was] the
sleeping [target]. No doubt the United States was proud; proud of
[its past] accomplishments but this attacktook the nation [by
surprise]. By no means though, has bin Laden and his group
won. [Terrorists]thought they could ruin the United States,
but they failed. President Bush [said], Our highest ideal was
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and remains individual liberty. These are very powerful words
and they portray the attitude of the average American.
Sara Larsen, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Although [Arnold Toynbee] lived to be only 31, he held a
tremendous impact on many lives. His belief that success comes
from hard work and cooperation are morals that remain a focus in
todays society.
On Tuesday, September 11, we as a nation were caught
sleeping. We were completely caught off-guard Formany
years we believed that our nation was far too superior for any
destruction or mishap to take place. However, on this horrible
day, we were proven wrong. The present day barbarian race that
confronted our nation is the terrorist group known as the Taliban.
But, this day in history was and will continue to be the only day
that a foreign barbaric group will [invade] our nation, for we will
win the battle for peace.
I strongly disagree with Arnold Toynbees ideas. He is not
alive today to witness a nation so great and so determined as ours.
If he was, he would observe the peace and the unity that has swept
across the entire country. The United States of America will not
allow Afghanistan, or its brutal Taliban followers to take away our
sense of peace and safety. Let it be known to all that our country
is no longer sleeping. We are now wide-awake and ready to
conquer any evil, terrorist race that confronts us. Never again will
anyone tear apart the peace and unity that we as Americans hold
for our nation.
Megan Bedwell, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

I do not agree with this quote. There are two times in history
where America has been the sleeping culture and another small,
ruthless country or terrorist has been the barbarian. The first time
was when Japan attacked Pear Harbor and woke America. As we
all know, America quickly chased Japan back to their mainland
and forced them to go against their will and surrender. Another
example is the brutal act of terrorism done by Osama Bin Laden
on the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. As in WWII, the
barbarian race will not win in the outcome of the war against
terrorism. The US and other allied countries will eventually, after
many years, break up and destroy the massive, tight-knit terrorist
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network. By capturing or executing many, if not all of the leaders
of the network.
Hopefully, the Northern Alliance, the US, and other allied
countries will be able to extinguish the terrorist wild fire before
the world has to learn how to cope with all of the terrorist attacks
and threats. However, [in] a few years the now, bizarre, anthrax
threats [may] become a common, everyday experience and the
economy [may] be sluggish. But, [as] before, America will
overcome these events and will flourish once again. As stated by
President Bush, terrorists can destroy the foundations of our
biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of
America.
Clint Ohl, Medicine Lodge High School, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Nels is afraid that the United States may become the
barbarian:
The members of the world wide terrorist group, Al Qaeda,
represent the barbarian race. This leaves the United States being
the sleeping culture that is confronted by the barbarian race, the
sitting duck so to speak. The sleeping culture in the beginning
could and more than likely will transform itself through its acts of
defense and retaliation into a barbarian race. As Mike Schlasner
of Rochester, Minnesota put it, If we continue down this path, I
fear that we will become the thing that we hate.
Nels Overgaard, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

John, however, believes retaliation is an obigation:
Americans were minding their own business, completing their
daily routines of work when they were barbarically attacked, just
like a sleeping child waking up from a horrible nightmare. The
events that happened were totally unimaginable and definitely
unexpected; the United States was caught off-guard with a clash
between civilization and barbarism. The only difference with
Toynbees quote and the recent events is that the United States
will never loose this battle against barbarians.
Once the United States woke up and digested the full
effects of what had just happened, President Bush took his stand as
the leader and found his way to guide this great nation. He vowed
to find the perpetrator and bring justice upon him Retaliation by
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force is not only the right of a sovereign government, but also its
obligation.
John Witt, Newell-Fonda High School, Newell, Iowa

Almost every student identified America as the sleeping
culture:
In the quote America would be the sleeping culture. The
people boarding the planes had no idea that their planes would be
taken hostage. And the people on their way to work at the World
Trades Centers had no idea that some of those very same planes
would crash into their building causing them to burn and fall to the
ground. The barbarians, Osama Bin Laden and Al Queda,
attackedwhen we least expected it.
Cassie Condley, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

Toynbee was right in saying that it is easy to attack a sleeping
culture. Probably the most recent example of this is the attack on
the Trade Center. Even after being warned of the possibility of
terrorist attacks, the United States still didnt take preventive
measures. We didnt prepare. We suffered the consequences:
thousands dead, our World Trade Center reduced to rubble, and
the aftermath experienced by many mourning citizens.
Brittany Gilley, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Pride cometh before a fall:
In this quote, Toynbee compares a sleeping culture to an
overconfident nation. The United States was once asleep to the
possibility of an attack on American soil. Barbarians of a terrorist
group escalated panic and hatred within our free world society.
Justin Bieberle, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

America felt that it was an invincible nation that no one dared to
attack. The events that occurred on September 11, 2001, shocked
America and in a way was a wakeup call to a sleeping nation.
Amanda Still, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Almost every student saw the relevance to the events of
9/11/01 in Toynbees quote:
This quote is very true relating to the exact occurrence which
happened one month ago. A barbarian race confronted our
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sleeping country.Our slumbering culture was rudely
awakenedThe Barbarians took advantage of thefreedoms our
nation takes pride inthe freedoms our ancestors fought battles
over Although part of our land was damaged, the confidence
and hope that swept the nation after the tragedy proves that, in this
case, the sleeping culture will prevail. The Talibans scheme was
successful in ruining buildings, but definitely not victorious in
conquering our patriotism.
Rachel Brungardt, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Danielle argues Americas loss at Pearl Harbor in 1941 and
the overthrow of the Taliban government in 1992 to prove
Toynbees point:
Seventeen hundred years later, another striking example of an
attack on a sleeping culture occurred. On December 7, 1941
America was going about its everyday life when Japan launched a
surprise attack on the United States Pacific Fleet Center at Pearl
Harbor. The striking force of 353 Japanese aircraft attack came
early on a Sunday morning. Japan had not declared war. There
was not even any suspicion of their intentions. The United States
could not have been less prepared. The attack destroyed almost the
entire naval unit and left the United States of America completely
helpless. The United States had been so nave and not able to
defend itself that Japan could have invaded the mainland. The U.S.
was unable to retaliate immediately because the nation had been
taken by such surprise. Americas plan to stay neutral throughout
World War II soon took a new turn. America joined the war in
heated self-defense.
The terrorist attack on the United States on September 11,
2001 was definitely a prime example of surprise attacks. The U.S.
had not been at war for many years. The nation had considered
itself the strongest and most stable it had been for a long time.
When the airplanes crashed into the Twin Towers on that Tuesday
morning, Americans awoke to a very disturbing predicament.
American life was disrupted, but we picked up the pieces and
began to move on. When Osama Bin Laden and his followers
failed to bring down the United States by force, they started trying
in different ways. It had only been a few weeks when the anthrax
[scare] broke out. Each day numerous attacks were being reported
of the mysterious letters, which contained a deadly white powder.
138
Americans thought, Our enemies are trying to do with an
envelope what they have failed to do with a 757. One point of war
is to know your enemy. Osama Bin Laden overestimated the
degree to which America was sleeping. America quickly
retaliated, sending armed forces into Afghanistan to overthrow the
Talibon government. The tables were now turned. Afghanistan
was now the unsuspecting one. Once again the sleeping culture
lost the battle.
Numerous conflicts both past and present have confirmed
Toynbees statement.
Danielle LeBlanc, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas
139
Personal Reflections
Quotation 14


The submarine may be the cause of bringing battle to a
stoppage altogether, for fleets will become useless, and as
other war materiel continues to improve, war will
become impossible. Jules Verne 1904

Jules Verne was a man with great imagination. His particular
feelings for war and the submarine are expressed through Captain
Nemo, in the book 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea. Captain Nemo
uses his submarine, the Nautilus, to destroy ships used for war.

The submarine may be the cause of bringing battle to a stoppage
altogether, for fleets will become useless, and as the war materiel
continues to improve, war will become impossible. This quote
can be looked at from many perspectives. From one view, it is an
idea that men will realize that they will destroy themselves.
However, if you replace the word submarine with nuclear
bomb, you can realize how true it is. Jules Verne saw the
submarine as a means to an end. He was able to look through the
destruction that the submarines could do and think of a way that
they could end destruction. This quote can summarize the cold
war. Two powerful nations found weapons so destructive that
there was no use for them, short of destroying the world. In some
way peace was obtained through mutual fear of war. Although his
statement about the submarine ending war was not true, it made a
larger statement about war itself. Only until man could destroy
himself could he realize the awesome duty to stop war.
Andy Irwin, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Jules Vernes words from the early 1900's discuss when
submarines were becoming a new tactical weapon, which explains
why he thought they would bring a stop to fighting on the ground.
This was a big jump for mankind, which led him to believe that
when more improvements are made, war will be impossible to
condone. I disagree with this quote because I know that the
[invention of the] submarine did not stop fighting It does not
140
matter how advanced this world becomes, war will always be a
possibility.
Kirk Inslee, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas






141
Personal Reflections
Quotation #15

"Quick-firing rifles, monstrous artillery, improved shells,
smokeless and noiseless gunpowderthese are so
destructive that a great battlecould cause the deaths of
300,000 men in a few hours. It is evident that the nations,
no matter how unconcerned they may be at times when
driven by a false pride, will draw back [in the twentieth
century] from this fearful vision." Charles Robert Richet

Even during the decade of increasing political tensions before
World War I, men clung to the hope that others would not start a
war. The sentiments of such men as Charles Robert Richet echoed
those of Nobel. Richet was a professor at the University of Paris,
as well as a Nobel Laureate. In addition to his discoveries in the
medical field, he was a dedicated pacifist and wrote several books
to demonstrate the malevolent effects of war. In 1913 he said,
quick-firing rifles, monstrous artillery, improved shells,
smokeless and noiseless gunpowderthese are so destructive that
a great battle could cause the deaths of 300,000 men in a few
hours. It is evident that the nations, no matter how unconcerned
they may be at times when driven by a false pride, will draw back
[in the twentieth century] from this fearful vision. Although the
military leaders of France were signing ententes and perfecting
war plans, Richet still maintained that fear would inspire peace.
The outbreak of the World Wars demonstrated that military
strength did not prevent war. And yet, were they completely
wrong? It was the power of the United States that ended both
wars. Ironically, the atom bomb, impossible to detonate without
dynamite, was almost entirely responsible for ending the fighting
in the Pacific Theater. Japan did indeed draw back from [the]
fearful vision of ten Hiroshimas. Unfortunately, this terrible new
weapon only brought five years of golden peace. Not even
nuclear power prevented the Korean, Vietnam, or Gulf Wars.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois
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Personal Reflections
Quotation #16


The world has changed dramatically. For Good or
Evil? Its up to us to determine. Mike Palecek

Mike Palecek, a columnist for The Weekender in Sioux City,
shares the same view by stating, People should not be killing
people. There is no good war. There never was. In killing each
other, due to war, it seems like we lose so much more than we
actually gain. Thousands of soldiers lives may be taken, but yet
all we seem to care about is that justice is served to those who
committed such insane acts.
Sara Curry, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

After the terrorist attacks upon our nation, hatred and evil have
once again risen to the front line. This shows us that even though
we are living in the twenty first century and have an unlimited
access to knowledge and information, we are still primitive beings
who let our deepest feelings take charge of our lives. There are
those out there who attack this hatred with love and compassion,
but there are still those who retaliate with more hatred. Right now
in this point of history maybe only war is the answer, but the
revelation of peace is beginning to take over. Our nation banded
together in trust and hope after September 11
th
. That has never
happened before. Knowledge and love are beginning to surface in
the human race.
As the world grows older and people learn more and more
about themselves and love, the peaceful will become the
majority. The evil people will become the minority at last. Until
that time we will always have war. Evil cannot be controlled until
we are able to control our thoughts and emotions in times of stress
and fear. War, unfortunately, is inevitable for now, but some day
we will have peace!
Jessica Youngs, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois



143
Personal Reflections on
Miscellaneous Quotations


Other Quotations Students Included
In Their Essays



"When I despair, I remember that all through history the
way of truth and love has always won. There have been
tyrants and murderers and for a time they seem
invincible but in the end, they always fall -- Think of it,
ALWAYS."
Mahatma Gandhi

According to the Internet, Mahatmas Gandhi once said, I object
to violence because when it appears to do good, the good is only
temporary; the evil it does is permanent. Why waste time-
consuming hate when we could use it wisely sharing love? It is
hard to understand why life is the way it is. However, it is nearly
obvious that evils like hatred, jealousy, and war are a waste of
time. They keep our world at an average level when it has the
capabilities to be out-of-this-world.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Gandhis philosophy about truth and love always defeating
tyrants and murderers seems to be the closest thing to world
peace. Although there may be times when it appears that the
fighting will never end, eventually somebody will have no choice
but to surrender. Staying truthful to our beliefs and loving others
for their opinions as well, gives us no real reason to argue.
Eventually, if we keep that thought in mind, we will defeat the
tyrants and murderers, because they too will learn to be truthful
and loving of each other. The problem is that it sounds so simple
but yet, at the same time, seems very difficult to accomplish.
Sara Curry, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

144
Mahatma Gandhi was a young lawyer from India who used his
knowledge of the law and of life to make a difference in the world
by bringing it peace. He was a champion in the fight against war.
He tried to peacefully change the way of life for his people.
All of the murderers and tyrants have been defeated by truth
and love throughout history. Unfortunately though, truth and love
did not stop the hatred at its source. We are beginning to win the
fight against evil because love has always triumphed, but there is a
long way to go. Only by showing other people our love and trust
will we be able to shut out our dark hearts and walk in the way of
peace. It is comforting to know that peace will always win, but it
would be even better if peace could win from the beginning.
Jessica Youngs, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

Mankind must put an end to war, or war will put an end
to mankind War will exist until that distant day when
the conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation
and prestige that the warrior does today.
J. F. Kennedy

"JFK was not misled when he said this. The most powerful
weapon we have is our minds. Our own emotions and self- esteem
can determine outcomes.
Aimie Jorgenson, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

By making yourself stronger and smarter and wiser,
you can influence those around you to be-and this will
have untold beneficial effect on the rest of the world."
Unknown

This quote by an unknown author explains that by having
knowledge we can conquer the hatred deep inside [and]be able
to avoid wars in the future. Older generations will die off and new
generations will come into power with this knowledge and love as
their weapons, instead of hatred, ignorance, and stupidity.
Jessica Youngs, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois

History never repeats itself neatly.
David Brooks, journalist
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War is the nature of man; therefore, as long as man lives there
will be combat. War is one of the responses by which one society
tries to reduce another society to obtain its objectives. Human
beings are flawed creatures capable of monstrosity, stated
journalist David Brooks. The desire for greed is one of the main
causes of war. As can be seen by past conflicts, man is always
looking to obtain more land and treasures. Along with greed
comes the need for power. To obtain this domination many are
willing to destroy anything in their path. Conflicts occur, and the
world has another war on its hands. Greed and power are simply
embedded in man, and that will never change."
Ashley Johnson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Marion Anderson, an African-American singer who was limited
because of her race said, No matter how big a nation is, it is no
stronger than its weakest people, and as long as you keep a person
down, some part of you has to be down there to hold him down, so
it means you cannot soar as you might otherwise.
Nate Palmer, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

It is truly tragic that a nation must be on the brink of war before
any unity is found. We must overcome these terrorist acts. We
must remember the patriotism we feel, and we must never lose that
superb feeling of nationality in the years to come. You are the
greatest of nations and the world will always look to you, follow
your examples and know that you are the icons of freedom,
compassion and justice. This quote, written by an anonymous
author from the United Kingdom [see page 30] proves just how
powerful our nation has become.
Over time, we have gained great respect and support from
many countries. Being an icon to the world, we are looked up to as
courageous, strong leaders. We have become a nation of numerous
freedoms and tremendous diversity. Whether in time of triumph
or war, our nation must always remain in peace and unity. Let us
continue to succeed, and may we always look to Martin Luther
Kings words for the incentive to persevere in the midst of trial:
Peace is more important than all justice; and peace was not made
for the sake of justice, but justice for the sake of peace.
Megan Bedwell, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

146
As stated in the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and
Cultural Organization Constitution, Since wars begin in the
minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace
must be constructed. Many countries take for granted that peace
is normal. It is hard to determine where peace ends and war
begins. Nations may be on unfriendly terms for years, building up
military strength and seeking allies without any actual clash of
armed forces. These countries might be considered to be merely
observing a rest period, and, in all actuality, planning to attack
when it would be least expected. War is not chosen if a nation or
group can get what it wants peacefully. However, war seldom
accomplishes the complete results any side has hoped for. Dwight
D. Eisenhower skillfully summed up the act of warfare by saying,
Every gun that is made, every warship launched, every rocket
fired signifies in the final sense, a theft from those who hunger and
are not fed, those who are cold and are not clothed. This world in
arms is not spending money alone. It is spending the sweat of its
laborers, the genius of its scientists, the hopes of its children. This
is not a way of life at all in any sense. Under the clouds of war, it
is humanity hanging on a cross of iron.
Kasey Swayden, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

War is sometimes necessary to bring about peace. Napoleon
Bonaparte said about peace, You do not get peace by shouting:
Peace. This has been proven true in the Middle East during recent
times. During President Bill Clintons time in office, he and
Yasser Arafat, the leader of the Palestinians, met and shook hands.
Their meeting was declared the beginning of peace in the Middle
East. Recently, Ariel Sharon, the Prime Minister of Israel,
declared war on the Palestinians. Sharon blamed Arafat for recent
suicide bombings and ordered him to stop them. This does not
sound like peace to me, but more like a cleansing war in which
Israelis might, for a time, be free from the worry of a Palestinian
suicide bomber taking his life and theirs in order to further his
insane goals. If Sharons war will ensure safety for thousands of
people, will it not be for good? Since 1948, when Israel became a
nation, the Arab world had done nothing but make trouble for
Israel despite Israeli efforts to make peace. The Israelis and the
Arabs have been fighting since Abrahams sons Ishmael (Arab
147
ancestor) and Isaac (Jewish ancestor) were borntheir entire
existence. A number of peace treaties have been signed and
broken by the Arabs in this time period.
Wesley Robinson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Why is war so widespread? I think because it appears at first
glance to be the easiest way for a nation or people to have their
way. But nobody quite comprehends the consequences. (Somas) I
believe I would have to agree with Somas. Nobody really takes
into consideration the consequences that follow a war. Thousands
of people die and most of the time it is for pointless reasons. I
think the world needs a wake up call. Achange in the basic way
of thinking would help our nations come together. We need
more understanding of others views and opinions and a little less
of our own views. Peace requires that one should understand if
not accept anothers point of view. We need to have mutual
respect to be able to agree upon anything at all, but that is lacking
in a world, which believes that power flows from the barrel of a
gun.(Somas) The statement is only half complete. Power flows
either way and it is not very long before the person who used this
power found himself at the receiving end,
Amber Wright, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

War is the spectacular and bloody projection of our everyday
life, stated journalist J. Krishnamurti. War is a natural part of life.
Although most humans would like to believe that someday there
will be peace on earth, it isnt true. War has been around since the
beginning of time, and will continue to be here until this world
ends. History shows that conflicts will never cease, and man will
continue to have wars.
Religion is another cause of war. Not everyone has the same
beliefs. If we had no belief but goodwill, love, and consideration
between us, then there would be no wars, stated J. Krishnmaurti.
Just as the crusaders fought for their religion, we still fight for ours
today. Man will continue to fight for his beliefs.
Ashley Johnson, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Wars have a lasting impact on everyones life. Salvator Dali
stated ironically, Wars never hurt anybody except the people who
die. This statement [is] false. When the terrorists flew into the
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Twin Towers of New York City, people all over the United States
were deeply devastated. Thousands of Americans lined up to give
blood that was rushed to the hospitals in New York City. Canned
food was collected all over the United States and was delivered to
the families of the victims. The United States flag was displayed
on car windows, bedroom windows, and front porches. President
G.W. Bush reacted to the attacks by stating, Terrorist attacks can
shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot
touch the foundation of America. Even the survivors of the
terrorist attack will be traumatized for life. Their best friends and
fellow employees were killed by the attack. They will go back to
work and still have September 11, 2001, on their minds.
Stephanie Woehl, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Referring to the ambitious war instigators, Hannah Arendt, a
German philosopher and popular author, stated, The sad truth is
that most evil is done by people who never make up their minds to
be good or evil.
Victoria Worster, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Peace will never truly be gained by war. War affects not only
combatants but non-military civilians as well. As Frederick Moore
Vinson once stated, Wars are not acts of God. They are caused
by man, by man-made institutions, by the way in which man has
organized his society. What man has made, man can change.
Peace will ultimately come when the worlds leaders rise up and
put the well being of humanity above all other issues. Perhaps
peace may never be achieved in my lifetime, or maybe it will
never completely be gainedAs stated in the novel A Separate
Peace by John Knowles, Hatred stems from an ignorance in the
human heart. In closing, unless we break the barriers between
mankind and fully begin to love and understand one another,
peace can never really be attained.
Kasey Swayden, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas

To achieve a lasting world peace, we must further develop our
friendship and cooperation and strengthen our solidarity with all
peace-loving countries. The only way this will be made possible is
if we give support to the national independence and liberation
movements as well as to the peace movement. As Ralph Waldo
149
Emerson once said, The real and lasting victories are those of
peace, not of war.
Amber Wright, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

Have you ever had a dream? John Lennon had a dream, which he
wrote about in a song called Imagine: You may say I'm a
dreamer/ But I'm not the only one/ I hope someday you'll join us
and the world will be as one. What was Lennon's dream? His
dream was that someday others would have the same hope and
dream that he did and peace will overcome the world. Some
believe that peace will be the one dream that will never be true.
Some wish. Some hope. Some believe.
Songwriter, singer, guitarist, and musician Jimi Hendrix
had a dream of peace: When the power of love overcomes the
love of power the world will know peace. What Hendrix is trying
to say here is that when people stop trying to obtain power and
believe in peace the world will have peace. Dreams are either
for war or peace. Peace would be more sentimental, less hectic,
more comforting, more like a dream, something a person imagines
in their mind. John Lennon once stated Imagine all the people
living life in peace. If every person would want peace, then we
could change the world to a peaceful place. Some hope, some
dream, some believe that the peace will overcome the world one-
day.
Mandy Marshall, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

As much as wed like to live in peace, it is highly unlikely that
we will. But we can still hope. As General Douglas Macarthur
said, Let us pray that peace be now restored to the world, and that
God will preserve it always.
Lacy Hefley, Valley Springs High, Valley Springs, Arkansas

It takes twenty years or more of peace to make a man; it takes
only twenty seconds of war to destroy him, King Baudouin I, the
King of Belgium in 1951 once said. War destroys people, and to
stop it, every-body has to be the bigger man, step down, and be
men of a larger caliber. Pablo Casals, a Spanish born cello
player who made extraordinary contributions to the music culture
of Puerto Rico and the world said, Each person has inside a basic
decency and goodness. If he listens to it and acts on it, he is giving
150
a great deal of what it is the world needs most. It is not
complicated but it takes courage. It takes courage for a person to
listen to his own goodness and act on it.
Sarah Miles, Luck High School, Luck, Wisconsin

People claim to hate one another, when in all reality they do not
even have a logical reason to hate. According to the Internet,
Abraham Lincoln once said, The best way to destroy an enemy is
to make him a friend I definitely agree with Lincoln. People
might imagine something about the person they hate, but more
than likely it is not true. These people judge others and show
unreasonable hatred. But, I must not be a hypocrite. We have all
been there at one time or another. I only dream that one day,
people will come to realize the stupidity found in their own
cruelty. When that happens, wars will turn to peace, and hate will
turn to love.
Blair Donovan, Medicine Lodge High, Medicine Lodge, Kansas
151

152
Section Four





Six Student Essays and
Participating Schools


153
154
Newel-Fonda High School
Newell, Iowa

Teacher: Connie Doonan

War: Is it Really Worth It?
Tara Kuchenreuther
12th Grade

Since the beginning of time, war has been a common
event. Many years have come and gone without a sliver of peace.
Leader after leader has led soldiers to the battlefield where they
fought for their beliefs and many never returned home, leaving
behind families and friends. Many believe war is acceptable
because they seem to be used to seeing war. War is not okay; if
the people were attacked first, the people should not attack back.
Let the people find other ways to defend themselves. Let the
people bring peace for the generations to come.
The author of this quote is unknown. Peace is rare: Less than
8% of the time since the beginning of recorded time has the world
been entirely at peace. In a total of 3,530 years, 286 have been
warless. Eight thousand treaties have been broken.
This process of war is all people have ever known. People
fight and never seem to be happy with the results, therefore,
causing more violence. No one has had the knowledge or the
strength to know when to stop fighting and start mending. People
are trying to be the almighty and are fighting now, but they are not
155
aware of the damage they are doing. Families were and still are
mourning for the loved ones they have lost. The song War &
Peace by Ice Cube states, 'The papers said that he died tragically!
Bloodshed if they got no love for peace!' People need to think
about the children and the future they will have.
On September 11, 2001, the United States was wrongfully
attacked because of terrorism. When America was attacked and
innocent lives were lost, the United States papers cried terrorism.
Terrorism is the act of intentionally harming an innocent person,
people, or country. Which by definition states, the United States
would also be a terrorist. The President claims the United States is
striking back by killing innocent people in Afghanistan. The
United States wants justice for what has been done. Families need
justice for the dead; they want to feel safe again by knowing the
terrorists are dead. However, the fact still remains that killing
innocent people achieve nothing, only bigger death tolls.
Justine Willis Toms was a teacher and a philosophy graduate,
who is now the General Manager of ABC Design &
Communication. She specializes in internet education and web
design management. She is the co-founder and Executive Director
of New Dimensions Radio. Justine lives with her husband,
Michael, in Mendocino County. Justines outlook on life is
summed up best in her quote: 'This is one of those pivotal
moments in history when we CAN change the world for the better
as we bring wisdom actively to the for and apply it with diligence
and clarity. Lets not go to reaction, dishing out what we have
received, but act in a new level of global compassion. This is the
time, we are the people. Our ancestors are rooting for us. May we
be the ones who step off the wheel of the never ending action and
reaction.
If the world needs change, the people should change it. It will
not change for the good all on its own. Never doubt that small
group of deeply committed citizens can change the world. Indeed,
it is the only thing that ever has (Margaret Mead, sociologist).
Changing the world is not done in one giant leap; it is done one
step at a time. A culture of peace will be achieved when citizens
of the world understand global problems, have the skills to resolve
conflicts and struggle for justice non-violently, live by
international standards of human rights and equity, appreciate
cultural diversity, and respect the Earth and each other (Hague).
156
For centuries, most people claim they want peace and hate the
acts of war. However, every violent event carries an expected
strength that creates a more extreme violence. With todays
technology, the invention of nuclear, chemical, and biological
weapons has created much opportunity for war rather than peace.
It all starts in the home when parents teach their children if
someone hits them, they are to hit the other person back. That is
where all the war began, children are taught to fight, not to create
peace. Everybody today seems to be in such a terrible rush,
anxious for greater developments and greater riches and so on, so
that children have very little time for their parents. Parents have
very little time for each other, and in the home begins the
disruption of the peace of the world. (Mother Teresa)
Mankind must put an end to war, or war will put an end to
mankind War will exist until that distant day when the
conscientious objector enjoys the same reputation and prestige that
the warrior does today (JF Kennedy) People must understand that
war is not fought in order to prove what is right, but it is to
preserve what is left of the world.
People need to start thinking about their children and the
generations to come. War is not achieving anything except world
debt and increased cemetery plots. People are always saying they
want their child to grow up in a world that is safe. War isnt safe,
but peace is. Let the people of the world unite and fight for peace
not wars. An eye for an eye will only leave the world
blind.(Gandhi).

Works Cited
Cube, Ice. "War & Peace."
http://www.nycity.demon.co.uk/icecube/war&peac.txt
Gandhi, Mahatma. "This a website against war."
<http://www.ideacog.net/index_waw.php
Hague Appeal for Peace Global Campaign. "Peace Education."
http://www.ipb.org/pe/index.htm.
Kennedy, John F. "WAR."
http://www.geocities.com/pprquotes/PPR-Quotes-War.htm
Mead, Margaret. "Peace Mamas International."
http://www.peacemamas.com/index.htm
Mother Teresa. "Citations." http://www.caodai.com/citation.htm
Toms, Justine. "War and Peace." http://www.newdimensions.org/
157
Medicine Lodge High School
Medicine Lodge, Kansas

Teacher: Devra Parker
The Crumbling of Our Nation

lancing away is now impo d the pictures on
ay, September 10th, people were fighting against praying
By Stephanie Schock
12
th
grade
ssible. The sounds an G
the television screen take control of my mind. Trying to make
sense of it all, I reluctantly look towards my teacher for
consolation. The tears in her eyes grab at my emotions, pulling at
them as if a puddle of quicksand were enveloping my heart. Can
this unattainable story be true? America under attackit seems so
unreal to me. It is impossible to think that someone actually acted
in such a barbaric and irrational way, sacrificing so many lives,
and that someone is celebrating, happy at seeing such a despicable
occurrence. Within a 24-hour-periodSeptember 10th to
September 11ththe world as Americans know it dramatically
changed.

n Mond O
in schools. On Tuesday, the 11th, one would have been hard
pressed to find a school where someone was not praying. In every
city, every county, and every state across the country, people
stopped and prayed. Hand in hand, on Tuesday, not one thought of
158
separating each other by race, sex, color or creed. How ironic then
is it to have Billy Graham, one of the greatest evangelists known,
say We must have military power to keep madmen from taking
over the world. After this world-boggling attack, people joined
together to fight this catastrophe simply with love, prayer, and
understanding. It seems strange to me that an icon of religious
freedom in our nation would choose to support the belief of
needing violent force to conquer terrorism. As a believer in Jesus
Christ our Savior, it is obvious to me that citizens of the free world
must fight this evil by joining together as a single nation. I
understand that military power is indeed important, but it is not the
key in defeating terrorism. The thing that makes life so cruel is
that everyone had such good reasons, and the extremist of this
world will not likely alter their beliefs by force.
Therefore, more military power is not going to prevent
madmen from attacking peace. Someone once said To preserve
r year, employees would return to labor as usual,
peace, we need weapons of smaller and men of larger caliber.
Although the author of this eminent quote is unknown, I believe he
meant people all over the world must put away their ungodly
weapons to be able to look at the big picture. Millions across the
globe have united as one to reach hope with our prayers. Before
Tuesday, people were fighting the Ten Commandments on
government property, and on that atrocious day the same people
looked up and said, God help us all, while thinking thou shall
not kill. On September 10th we thought we were secure, but on
September 11th, we learned the bitter reality. Americans realized
we held no weapon that could destroy the evil lurking of mens
mind.
The World Trade Centers were a place of work for thousands.
Year afte
undoubtedly feeling safety within their walls. Rushing to work,
citizens worried about arriving late because of the traffic, but after
the terrorist attack, our worries focused on planes crashing into our
homes or place of business. The protection of America fell as the
walls of the trade center crumbled. The peace of our democracy
was overshadowed by the new threat of war. It was as though we
had returned to World War II, and the regime of Hitler was in
control. In fact, Adolf Hitler once said, The one means that wins
the easiest victory over reason: terror/and force. As a dictator, he
shares many qualities with the newly famous terrorist, Osama bin
159
Laden. Both lunatics philosophies agree that terror can overcome
reason. The world we live in is not based on fear, hatred or
control, but rather the freedom to choose.
Throughout life people change and mature as they change. Going
off to college was an unfeasible idea to me. Leaving my friends
and family for a new and strange place, I just couldn't comprehend
how different it would be. Before September 11, I never thought
that my life could change so dramatically, so quickly. Although
there have been famous icons that have uttered words to
remember, these phrases do not have to be the dictum of our
future. On Monday morning parents argued with their kids about
picking up their room, but on Tuesday morning the same parents
could not return home fast enough to hug their precious babies. It
is sadly ironic how it takes horrific events to place life into
perspective, but it has. I hope the importance of peace has been
seared in our minds. The lessons learned, the obsessions we have
taken for granted, and the little moments that have been forgotten
or overlooked, hopefully, will never be forgotten again.
160
Froebel's International School
Islamabad, Pakistan

WAR AND PEACE

By Omer Kamal Aijazi
Grade 12, A-levels

Note to readers: this essay has been centered around a single
quotation in order to prevent crossing the word limit.... I've
included personal, but applicable views. No attempt has been
made to include backgrounds of certain global issues, as I believe
it would impede the flow of my essay.
"The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone has
such good reasons." Anonymous
"In the modern day concept of existence, logic plays absolutely no
role. Reasons based on logic are refuted as dry, shallow and not so
appealing."

This is where emotions come in. This is where zeal comes in. This
is where concepts of pragmatism and tolerance are shoved out
the window.

161
Most of our lives we find ourselves following our hearts rather
then our brain. The human sixth sense has a far greater link with
one's subliminal passions, desires and goals rather than with
innate intelligence. Ever experienced a gut feeling?

But the problem is, such ardent displays of one's psyche can never
be fully explained. Ever licked the cream [off] a biscuit sandwich
and put the remaining back into the boxjust because you felt
like itjust because you experienced this intense craving for
vanilla, and at the same time this intense disgust for the crumbly
biscuit cover?

If one's desires can't be explained, which is an established fact,
then expedients and statisticians may just strike a cord of
rebellion.

Now lets get back to the topic.

The world is pitted between the 'haves' and the 'have-nots'. The
former category has every reason to get his/her share whereas the
latter group has every right to expand his/her horizons. It's like
Robin Hood stealing for the misfortunate and a dutiful sheriff
posing as an obstacle. So who's to blame? Who's the bad guy? For
one individual to explain his point of view to the other party is
usually like talking to a deaf brick wall...only much worse. Except
off course, if someone actually strives and makes a sincere effort
to erase all misconceptions. Sadly, such gems are usually a
minority in our society.

Everybody is just so preoccupied.

In Afghanistan, a 12-year-old young warrior prays every night for
the destruction of the United States and every morning stands
perched on top of a hill with his slingshot to pelt a few infidel
soldiers. Why?

Because his heart tells him to. His soul is contaminated with hate,
he knows the foreigners don't belong here. He knows, they were
the ones who shot his fatherdead.
162
Not far away, in Camp Rhino, sit a couple of brave men huddled
around a fire. Their minds flooded with the memories of their
loved ones, their hearts racing. Will they ever make it back home?
They are on a reconnaissance mission; one which might uplift the
local community. Yet they face such intense hatred and
opposition, that they are made to wonder, maybe they are the
sinners.

A Palestinian graduate, with degree in sociology and journalism
stands outside a Tel-Aviv cafe. Beneath his long leather undercoat,
are strapped a dozen sticks of dynamite. He is on a mission too. A
mission which would make a statement. At least from his point of
view. It would scream to the world regarding unfair restrictions
imposed on his people A few miles away, an angry Jewish settler
mourns the death of her mother, who was lethally wounded in a
recent suicide bombing. Her face lined with tears, she vows to
shoot every Palestinian on sight.
Life is a paradox.

We must not become partisans. We must not indiscriminately
strive just for one cause. We must not channel our energies and
fuel are inspirations with just one side of the story. After all, every
coin has two faces. And people don't take too long to turn over for
afreshstart...

So with everyone's point of view, every one's directive being so
rigid, there is often no space for maneuvering. The universe is
suffering from [a] congestion of ideas.

Sometimes, ideas and beliefs which are contradictory to each other
and other established ideologies are so well defined and oriented
that it takes more than Shakespeare's perception and Einstein's
intelligence to put in a dividing line. All that is really required is
a pure, ethereal conscious and a few douses of profound under-
standing of humanity. If so, decision making shouldn't be such a
daunting task.
Our media sounds as if it's on the military's payroll. Politicians
believe in exploiting human rights and our critics believe that
163
they've watched more movies than the editor of the Weekly
Review.

What goes up, often comes down.

The point is, that no matter how many dogmatic citizens of planet
Earth, we come across, no matter how many heresies we read in
cult magazines, we must always weigh our stance. Everyone's
point of view has some truth and intelligence embedded within a
certain depth. All ideas have potential intelligence; all reasons
have sound supportive backgrounds. So whenever we have to
make a move, we must keep in mind all possible consequences
and their sphere of influence up to an infinite radius. What makes
life so cruel is that everyone has such good reasons.... but speak
again. There are always moral aberrations in the fabric of time
such as the one listed below:

"The one means that wins the easiest victory over reason: terror
and force." Adolph Hitler.

Maybe such an attitude is what keeps the world tilted out of
imbalance and keeps it rotating so indifferently.

Let's not allow our selfishness, narrowness of vision, lack of
insight and absence of foresight to slow down the universe...

What goes up, often comes crashing down...There is never room
for seconds...
164
Paoli High School
Paoli, Oklahoma


Teacher: Melinda Alfred
War and Peace: An Essay on Man
Rachael Logan
12
th
Grade
Throughout the history of man, wars have been waged among the
people of earth. Whether it is to conquer, destroy, or preserve,
families have fought against families, tribes against tribes, one
religions followers against anothers, and in the modern day,
nations against nations. People have fought for land, wealth,
power, and security. While a moral society and most all people
despise and frown at the very thought of war, many times the
fighting and destruction are unavoidable, and it seems that the
problem lies within our character as people.
165
Marcus Tullius Cicero once said "I prefer the most unjust peace to
the justest war ever waged." Cicero was a Roman statesmen,
lawyer, scholar, and writer. He was born into wealth, established a
career in law, and then plunged into politics. Cicero was elected to
consul in 63 BC, where he tried to uphold the Republican
principles in the civil wars that destroyed the Roman Republic. He
was also considered the greatest Roman orator. While no doubt a
great man, one to be revered for his stateliness and wisdom, it was
perhaps too assuming for a man like Cicero to truly understand the
foundations of war. Though involved heavily in the law, the
politics, and everything that surrounds war, Cicero was in reality
sheltered from the grounds in which the reasons and causes for
war could be truly conceived. While we would all prefer to avoid
even the most just war, Ciceros unjust peace could never be.
In real life, no such thing as an unjust peace exists. What would be
mistaken for an unjust peace is really not a peace at all. By one
definition, peace is a freedom from civil disturbance. There can be
no freedom from civil disturbance without justice. While a war
may not be raging between the peoples, those peoples are busy
making allies, training military, and gathering arms. The very
statement of an unjust peace is describing a peace characterized by
injustice, and therefore not peace. Peace cannot exist without
justice, as war cannot exist without injustice.
The best statement to help us comprehend the actions that take
place during a war is this statement made by an unknown author:
"The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone has such good
reasons." War has causes, and war reasons. While the causes for
war can, for the most part, be understood, it is often the peoples
motives to start a war that baffle us. The main problem is that no
man has a full understanding of another mans beliefs and
opinions. For example, after the September 11
th
attacks on
America, the followers of Bin Laden came forward to say that
their beliefs classify Americans as evil. Bin Laden attempted to
tell his people that they were following the ways of the Koran,
when in fact the Koran teaches peace and humility. In turn,
without even knowing about what true Muslims practice as their
faith, some Americans were quick to believe such lies, became
short- tempered, and began to act out against Muslims in America,
166
even those who were American citizens and knew that Bin Laden
is an evil man. Those American people did not understand what
those who were attacking us believe, just as those who follow Bin
Laden in no way know or understand the diverse beliefs of the
American people. Without patience and knowledge, we can have
no acceptance of anothers beliefs.
Ben Herbster said "The greatest waste in the world is the
difference between what we are and what we could become." Dr.
Ben Herbster was the founder of the United Church of Christ. He
devoted his life to serving as the president of the United Church of
Christ and the trustee for the Church, as well as many other United
Church of Christ offices. Dr. Herbster also served the elderly in
his spare time. An award is now given in Dr. Herbster's name and
presented to people in United Church Homes communities who
have shown themselves to be upstanding individuals.
It is no surprise that Dr. Herbster has been a source of inspiration
and motivation for people to do right in every corner of the world.
His words in the preceding quote ring true. Many people are hurt
each day by the actions of another who has failed to care enough
about others to educate themselves to be a kind, loving, and
considerate person. Too often we shrug off taking the high road
because we are just too busy. We must all strive to be better
people, look out for our fellow man, and understand one another to
the best of our abilities.
While we may never be able to live in a world free of war, we do
have to the capacity to make the world we live in a better place.
Through awareness and tolerance, we can all live together in
harmony.
Rachael Logan, Paoli High School, Paoli, Oklahoma

167
Rockridge High School
Rockridge, Illinois



Teacher: Barb Downey

War and Peace
Marcus Kilgore
12
th
Grade

"75,519,678. 31,192. 2,421.What do these numbers have in
common one may ask? Is there a proportional number by which
they have all been multiplied or divided? Are they important
numbers used to calculate the most in depth calculus and physics
equations? Or could they just be three numbers listed greatest to
least? They are none of the above. Total dead. Total days. Total
dead per day. In just 31,192 days more then 75,519,678 people
died of war. These people did not just die of heart attacks or
something natural; these are actual war casualties. That is 2,421
deaths a day. The worst news is that is only taking eleven wars
into consideration from November 6, 1860 through September 2,
168
1945. If we began killing one person per second, it would take 874
days to take 75,519,678 lives. If that is the case, let's get started.

'Peace is rare: Less than 8% of the time since the beginning of
recorded time has the world been entirely at peace.' In a total on
3,580 years, 286 have been warless. Eight thousand treaties have
been broken in this time." The author of this quote is unknown,
but that does not have any bearing on the power behind the words.
It is an amazing fact that of all those years, only 286 have been
times without war. Humans consider themselves at the top of the
food chain because we have the ability to choose and make
rational thought. Unlike animals, we know not to cross highways
without looking before we decide to cross. That is what set us
apart from the rest of nature. We were blessed with this divinity
but instead of using it to advance; we use it to wage war. It is
scary to comprehend how many times the human race has knocked
on the door of a nuclear war. A nuclear war would, with no doubt,
be the end of everything as we know it. We have just been
lucky enough that no one has answered that door yet.

'To preserve peace, we need weapons of smaller and men of larger
caliber.' Once again, this is said by an unknown person but
whoever said it was very right. Weapons do not end the attacks
and the death. At the end of each war there are treaties that are
signed. These treaties are written up by people who are well
educated and intelligent. If these people were to have discussed
differences before a war, then the whole situation would have been
avoided. Weapons need to be put away, and the common
sense all humans have, needs to be brought out of the
cabinets and used more often. Force will get us nowhere.

"The thing that makes life so cruel is that everyone has such good
reasons." This author speaks the truth. Wars have been started
because there are two or more parties that do not agree. Each side
feels they are right and the other is wrong. The only way countries
have been able to deal with these kinds of feelings is by trying to
overpower the other. The same idea holds true for cult groups and
terrorists. Israel and Palestine is a prime example. Both groups
feel if they blow the other off the map, all the problems will go
away and be solved. No matter who would "win" the war between
169
the two, there will always be opposition from people that
do not agree with the victorious side. There is no easy answer but
killing each other surely will not end in a positive resolution.

The next quote was made by one of the most influential men in
history. He led an entire country into war and conquered most of
Europe. His power as a speaker and motivator is uncanny and
cannot be denied to him. Not many people in today's society agree
with what he motivated but nonetheless, he was a great
manipulator. Adolf Hitler said, "The one means that wins the
easiest victory over reason: terror and force." He could not have
worded it any better. The only reason wars are fought is because
there is someone who believes they are superior to the rest of
humanity. Hitler used these thoughts to persuade the rest of
Germany and his neighbors to believe they were part of a
greater race. Had he not had the weapons to begin this
war, the fifty-five million people would have lived to see
the rest of their lives. Hitler had access to those weapons
though, and those people did not see their families grow.

Religion and faith; hate and vengeance. Both have caused more
wars than can be counted and taken more lives than one can
comprehend. Yet with each war both sides have told
everyone they were the right ones; some even felt there was
nothing wrong with gassing innocent children and then
burning their bodies in human furnaces. Our enemies felt
it was justifiable to instantly kill 4,000-6,000 people
on September 11, 2001. With all this death, can you come up
with a good reason for war. If so, let me be the first to know.
Marcus Kilgore, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois







170
Rockridge High School
Rockridge, Illinois


Teacher: Barb Downey

War and Peace Is It Enough?
Amber Andress
12
th
Grade


After eight hours of uneventful flight, the view from the window
of a B-29 had changed from tranquil waters to a densely populated
landscape. Do we all agree that this is Hiroshima? asked the
young pilot. After a brief pause on each of the crew to ensure
their affirmation, his gaze traveled to the lighted green numbers on
the control board that gleamed 8:15:15 A.M. Two seconds later
the most catastrophic weapon in the history of human conflict
descended into infamy, ending the worlds largest chronicled war.
The legacy of this event was an unforgettable mushroom cloud
and the conviction that peace must be the theme of the future. But
has mankind finally reached the level of military destructiveness
that will prevent war, or will stubborn pride prevail over good
sense and the possibility of self-destruction?

171
Throughout history kings and nations believed that commanding
the most military strength would bring victory and peace. In fact,
the Roman Empires longevity was almost solely dependent upon
its Legions. In the ages since the fall of Rome, nations have
amassed weapons with the conviction that if they were powerful,
they would not be attacked. At the turn of the 19
th
century, most
influential people of the world continued to uphold militarism.

Alfred Nobel was a Swedish industrialist who traveled to France,
Russia, and the United States and became fluent in five languages.
He is most famous for the establishment of the peace prize in his
name, but only slightly less well known for the invention of
dynamite. Although warfare was not its intended use, Nobel could
not ignore the influence dynamite would have on human conflicts.
His view, however, was optimistic: my dynamite will sooner lead
to peace than a thousand world conventions. As soon as men will
find that in one instant whole armies can be utterly destroyed, they
surely will abide by golden peace. Clearly, he thought that fear
of the destructive power of dynamite was enough to prevent men
from provoking the use of it.

Even during the decade of increasing political tensions before
World War I, men clung to the hope that others would not start a
war. The sentiments of such men as Charles Robert Richet echoed
those of Nobel. Richet was a professor at the University of Paris,
as well as a Nobel Laureate. In addition to his discoveries in the
medical field, he was a dedicated pacifist and wrote several books
to demonstrate the malevolent effects of war. In 1913 he said,
quick-firing rifles, monstrous artillery, improved shells,
smokeless and noiseless gunpowderthese are so destructive that
a great battle could cause the deaths of 300,000 men in a few
hours. It is evident that the nations, no matter how unconcerned
they may be at times when driven by a false pride, will draw back
[in the twentieth century] from this fearful vision. Although the
military leaders of France were signing ententes and perfecting
war plans, Richet still maintained that fear would inspire peace.

In spite of their immersion in global affairs, Richet and Nobel did
not accurately predict the actions of men. The outbreak of the
World Wars demonstrated that military strength did not prevent
172
war. And yet, were they completely wrong? It was the power of
the United States that ended both wars. Ironically, the atom bomb,
impossible to detonate without dynamite, was almost entirely
responsible for ending the fighting in the Pacific Theater. Japan
did indeed draw back from [the] fearful vision of ten
Hiroshimas. Unfortunately, this terrible new weapon only brought
five years of golden peace. Not even nuclear power prevented
the Korean, Vietnam, or Gulf Wars.
The atom bomb produced an uncharitable attitude toward modern
weapons. Albert Einstein was a great thinker and pacifist, and is
best known for his Theory of Relativity. His theories had as much
influence on the Manhattan Project as Nobels dynamite.
However, he had a pessimistic view of the impact his discoveries
would have on war. In the 1950's he said, I dont know what
kind of weapons will be used in the third world war, assuming
there will be a third world war. But I can tell you what the fourth
world war will be fought withstone clubs. Not only did
Einstein believe that men would use any means available to carry
out conflicts, but he also predicted that such a use would cause the
destruction of all that mankind has built in the last 4,000 years.
This statement reflected the growing realization that the world can
no longer rely on displays of military strength to preserve peace.

World leaders saw this potential for self-destruction and made an
effort to ensure that posterity would not be conceived in caves. In
June of 1945, fifty countries signed the charter that established a
new peacekeeping organization, the United Nations. In the last
fifty-seven years, the United Nations has helped millions of people
as well as brought peace to many countries at a much lower human
cost than explosives. Furthermore, members of the UN have
signed several treaties in an attempt to reduce nuclear power.
Although the author is unknown, the quote, to preserve peace, we
need weapons of smaller and men of larger caliber, could be the
official motto of the UNs operations in the twentieth century.

Indeed, it is not fear but diplomacy that will bring peace in the
new millennium. The attacks of September 11, 2001, confirmed
the fact that there will always be those who will not let even the
threat of self-destruction hinder their attempts to carry out their
173
purpose. If peace is to be the theme of the future, we must put our
energies toward the development of a more tolerant and compass-
sionate world. United we stand.
Amber Andress, Rockridge High School, Taylor Ridge, Illinois





174
Participants

2001-2002
War and Peace
Luck High School
Luck, Wisconsin
Teacher: Barbara Petersen

Aimie Jorgenson Ashleigh Swanson Stacey Gobler
Jamie Thompson Jennifer Lundborg Kallin Anderson

Katie Rowe Laura Stonesifer Nate Palmer Cassy York
Holly Mischler Emma Miles Hillary Giller Katie Rowe
Sally Schauls Sara Miles Stephanie Ledland Beth King

Rockridge High School
Rockridge, Illinois
Teacher: Barb Downey

Stacey Jackson Brett Anderson Dana Deem Sara Curry
Michelle Pressly Tyson Martin Jared Downey Andy Irwin

Amber Andress Jessica Young Lindsay Behrensmeyer

Marcus Kilgore
175
Medicine Lodge High School
Medicine Lodge, Kansas
Teacher: Devra Parker
Blair Donovan Carrie Anderson Chelsi Winborne

Clint Ohl Dawnan Totty Kirk Inslee Dustin Hern

Justin Bieberle Justin Shelite Kasey Swayden Nick Ricke

Rachel Boyd Rachael Brungardt Robin Long
Roger Seiler Megan Bedwell Stephanie Schock

Valley Springs High School
Valley Spring, Arkansas
Teacher: Lavina Grandon

Amanda Still Amber Kidd Amber Wright

Ashley Johnson Ben Gibson Brian Whiteside
Brittany Gilley Christina Getman Cody White
Donald Berry Jason Yarbrough Kali Davis

Lacey Gross Lacey Hefley Lyndsay Read
Mandy Marshall Matt Bodson Melissa Waterland
Shane Brewer Stephanie Woehl Danielle LeBlanc
Victoria Worster Wesley Robinson William Davis
176
Froebel's International School
Islamabad, Pakistan

Individual Entry
Omer Kamal Aijazi

Newell-Fonda High School
Newell, Iowa
Teacher: Connie Doonan

Aaron Bland Aaron Gehrig A.J. Kelly

Amanda Kies Brian Bakerville Christa Fitch

Doug White Dustin Sievers Emily Koster
Jared Daniel Jason Ripke Jill Honor

John Witt Krista Hakeman Kurt Olsen
Kyle Stauter Molly Siervers NelsOvergaard

Rachel Mohr Sara Larsen Shanda Wells

Steven Smith Tara Kuchenreuther Tara Soll





177
Paoli High School
Paoli, Oklahoma
Teacher: Melinda Alfred

Tara Fisher Annie Sutherland Crystal Nelson
Tiffany Jo Gibson Luke Richardson Lindsey DeArman

James W Pearce David Davis Cassie Condley
Ashlee O'Pecko Rachael Logan Jamie Davis


Kiona-Benton High School
Benton City, Washington
Teacher: Dea Podhajsky

Andrea Ulk Brian Flores Brendan McElroy

Destiny Petersen Dillon Zachara Eric Foss
Josh Corriel Lindsey Schaeffer Nickie Haug
Rick Rose Robert Gray Jeff Linehan

Rachyl Roach




178
America's Wars: U.S. Casualties
and Veterans
The table below has information about the total number of
service members, battle deaths, and non-mortal woundings in
wars from 1775 to 2006; such as the American Revolution,
the Civil War, World War I and II, Vietnam, and more.
Courtesy i nfoplease. com
American Revolution (17751783)
Total service members 217,000
Battle deaths 4,435
Non-mortal woundings 6,188
War of 1812 (18121815)
Total service members 286,730
Battle deaths 2,260
Non-mortal woundings 4,505
Indian Wars (approx. 18171898)
Total service members 106,000
1

Battle deaths 1,000
1

Mexican War (18461848)
Total service members 78,718
Battle deaths 1,733
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 11,550
Non-mortal woundings 4,152
Civil War (18611865)
179
Total service members (Union) 2,213,363
Battle deaths (Union) 140,414
Other deaths in service (non-theater) (Union) 224,097
Non-mortal woundings (Union) 281,881
Total service members (Conf.) 1,050,000
Battle deaths (Conf.) 74,524
Other deaths in service (nontheater) (Conf.) 59,297
2

Non-mortal woundings (Conf.) unknown
Spanish-American War (18981902)
Total service members 306,760
Battle deaths 385
Other deaths in service (nontheater) 2,061
Nonmortal woundings 1,662
World War I (19171918)
3

Total service members 4,734,991
Battle deaths 53,402
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 63,114
Nonmortal woundings 204,002
Living veterans fewer than 25
1

World War II (19401945)
3

Total service members 16,112,566
Battle deaths 291,557
180
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 113,842
Nonmortal woundings 671,846
Living veterans 3,242,000
1

Korean War (19501953)
Total service members 5,720,000
Serving in-theater 1,789,000
Battle deaths 33,741
Other deaths in service (theater) 2,833
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 17,672
Non-mortal woundings 103,284
Living veterans 3,086,400
1

Vietnam War (19641975)
Total service members 8,744,000
Serving in-theater 3,403,000
Battle deaths 47,424
Other deaths in service (theater) 10,785
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 32,000
Non-mortal woundings 153,303
Living veterans 7,286,500
1

Gulf War (19901991)
Total service members 2,225,000
Serving in-theater 665,476
181
Battle deaths 147
Other deaths in service (theater) 382
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 1,565
Non-mortal woundings 467
Living veterans 1,852,000
1

America's Wars Total
Military service during war 43,185,893
Battle deaths 653,708
Other deaths in service (theater) 14,560
Other deaths in service (non-theater) 525,930
Non-mortal woundings 1,447,281
Living war veterans 17,835,000
4

Living veterans 23,976,000
Global War on Terror (as of Sept. 30, 2006)
5

Total Service members (Worldwide) 1,384,968
Deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan 165,000
Battle Deaths 3,776
Other Deaths (In Theater) 958
Non-mortal Woundings 21,649
Living Veterans 588,923
6






182
183
1. Veterans Administration estimate as of Sept. 30, 2006.

2. Estimated figure. Does not include 26,00031,000 who
died in Union prisons.

3. Years of U.S. involvement in war.

4. Approximately 1,065,000 veterans had service in multiple
conflicts. They are counted under each conflict, but only
once in the total.

5. For the most current GWOT statistics, visit:
http://www1.va.gov/opa/fact/amwars.asp

6. VA estimate does not include those still on active duty and
may include veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Source: Department of Defense and Veterans Administration.