The World's Next Genocide?

In our world today, the themes of Catholic Social Teaching are extremely prevalent. A primary theme is  seeking justice for those who are unjustly persecuted. I think that as explained in the article, the Syrians are heading down a path of self-destruction. The motto “Christians to Beirut, Alawites to their graves!” is promoting violence, and the exact opposite of justice. As the Sunni extremist fight for a "cleansing" of the country, they are causing their country turmoil and violence. Catholic Social Teaching is not only a guide for the United States, but also for foreign countries. America is not perfect, however, we have made it a priority to never experience the horrors of genocides such as the Holocaust and the Rwanda Genocide in our country. It is very realistic to think that CST can guide us in our decisions as individuals and a nation. If individuals priorities justice and respect, then the nation will be guided and led by strong leaders who are dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. Hopefully if our nation can maintain peace and stability, Syria can use us as an example.

Silence begets violence

Although every national tragedy that our country suffers affects each citizen immensely, nothing could be more traumatic or terrible than the murder of innocent kindergarten children. This event will leave an irrevocable mark on our country forever, leaving kids nervous to go to school and parents wary of the safety of their children. I think that the shooting in Newtown has made people realize how important their loved ones are and how urgent the need is to address mental health in our society. We cannot let those who are troubled get left aside. As a community, we need to reach out and get those with mental illness the help they need, so that they don't irrationally cause damage to other lives. I think Catholic Social Teaching demonstrates the need to address our society's issues and work towards the future. The lives lost will never be forgotten, but our country cannot dwell on the tragedy. Rather, we must make an effort to better our country by improving gun laws, helping the mentally disturbed, and providing aid and support to those who lost their loved ones.