Hate

It was the day before thanksgiving and I was happy I was going to get a 4 day weekend. I just about reached home when I learned about the attacks in Mumbai. My first thought was the safety of my sister and her husband. After a quick phone call checking that they were safe, I started reading more about what happened and what was happening.

Few days later I was talking to people about this and wasn't surprised to find that they blamed Muslims for the attack and that its obvious that all around the world terrorism is happening around "them". No amount of explanation would budge them from their stand. Its sad but true, some people who call themselves followers of Islam are setting a bad name for the majority.

Heres my take on terrorism:

Poor + Nothing to do + Answer(e.g. Religion) -> Hate -> Terrorism

We cant do much about the 3rd variable since religion will always be misinterpreted, but the other two are something that can be modulated. Create prosperity by involving the local population and you now have people who go to work, have families to care for and no longer are interested in hurting others. Well, for the most part. I understand that it is not as easy to do, but atleast is a start.

Its sad that these things happen but I see solidarity in the country this time. Its a good sign, but people, please please don't turn overly patriotic. Its not healthy for the world, as it will eventually lead to hate.