LET Dialogue needed to avoid war

Peace can never be achieved through violence. Violence always begets more violence. The Israel-Palestine confrontation has at least proven this.

Why is it that the vast majority who advocate war have never served in the military? Why are they willing for someone else to do the fighting and dying while they stay home and talk tough? One of the great myths is that the military wants war. They always will go because of the chain of command, but they would rather stay home with their families.

I read now that Russia and Iraq have a five-year, $40 billion economic agreement. As this agreement is finalized, there is a flurry of activity between Russia and what the nation's cowboy Bush has called the "Axis of Evil." Even Republicans have spoken in opposition to war. This is a time when skillful dialogue is needed. If we get in a war with Iraq, China and Russia, we will be getting in a war we cannot possibly win. We talk peace while this country is the largest exporter of weapons which can be used for mass destruction.

I would think we should get our own house in order before lecturing others. Isn't it ironic that some combat deaths in Afghanistan were incurred by weapons this country sold to Osama bin Laden?

Ron; Deitschman

Rochester;