posted December 12, 2006 01:49 PM            

Both my grandparents, had moderately religious upbringings, but neither of them were massively religious themselves. On the flipside, they also had a deep respect for religion, provided that faith wasn't taken to far. My grandparents families accepted their romance eventually and came to the understanding, that despite some obvious differences, they were all christians and they all prayed to one God. And as God's fellow creatures they should respect and look after each other. And that they did.

I believe there are a small number of mixed religion school's dotted around both the north and south of Ireland. These school's are a wonderful addition to a country, with such a strife ridden, war-torn history. The Emerald Isle is a magical place, growing in diversity and multi-cultrialism as we speak.

I have friends and family in both Dublin and Belfast and visit both areas frequently. It is difficult, knowing that the history between the north and the south still continues to cause so much hurt. Driving through the north, seeing the Union Jack flag on so many houses and the kerbs painted red, white and blue, made me very uneasy indeed. And hearing the murderous talk of some irish republicans, in a bar in Mayo upset me greatly.

I sadly had a bad experience with my partners 2nd cousin from the republic, who as soon as he learnt that I had relatives from the north, refused to ever speak to me again, but certainly makes sure he gives me a nasty look whenever I'm around. Never mind that I have relatives in the south as well! Luckily my partner and family are on my side. He is an A-hole and there's is nothing I can or would want to do to help such a closed mind.

Terrorists are everywhere, but luckily they are in the minority. Most people just want to live peacefully, whatever the outcome. I personally think that it was ridiculous of the English to steal 6 counties at the top of Ireland for themselves and as a gesture of goodwill, it would be nice to see them given back. but we must bear in mind that this happened 100's of years ago and that was how things worked back then. And most importantly, many of those in NI like the way things are now - they were born into it after all. It's hard to know what to think.

Those are a few of my views on the subject. I see both sides because I HAVE to see both sides. My opinion will remain neutral for the sake of my friends and relatives. The people I choose to associate with, often have very differing viewpoints, but as long as they express these viewpoints in a clear, honest and non-malicious way, then I will agree with both sides, because both sides are being true themselves and going about it in the right way. This will sound arrogant, but in my position, my viewpoint is the safest. It's indecisive and it doesn't get a whole lot done, but it doesn't hurt anybody either. It's the middle ground, not either extreme.

Getting away from myself for a minute ( ) I do believe that catholics and protestants can live side by side in peace and harmony. It will take forgivness of past wrongs (wiping the slate clean), tolerance of differing viewpoints (agreeing to disagree) and a willingness to give love to others and do the right thing. What I'm saying is, that if my grandparents could do it, so can everybody else!!! Love conquers all.....

posted December 12, 2006 04:08 PM              

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We've been living in peace for a very long time. Last time I checked the Lutheran Brigade has not declared a jihad on the Quaint Catholic Brigade. But that is here in the US....
I have no idea how things have been in other countries such as Ireland. Still, I don't know how much of that fighting was based on actual religious beliefs or political problems

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Yes I believe most wars fought on name of religion are political anyway, thats my opinion about the Crusades and thats my opinion about the clash between the Sunnis and Shiites in Iraq--its a power struggle over who watns to control govt, not a religion struggle. Same in Pali/Israel and I would say same in Ireland from what I have heard. Same goes for Sudan even tho people like to pretend its a racial or religious issue its more of a resources, agricultural and power issue.

Also I dont know what you mean by jihad, but it has vastly different meanings across different Muslim sects and according to different scholars. The concept of warfare in religion isnt new to Islam though, it originates in Jewish history. To use the term as a coined word for religious violence is a misuse and somewhat inaccurate I would say.