News-Record.com

"Tom Fox loved his enemies. He lost his life loving his enemies. Could you do what he did?"

I think I could if I thought it would help.

But a little thought should have shown that this was not the way to help. Who could not have forseen that a group with the word "Christian" in its name would be seen in a negative light by Muslim fanatics? In Iraq, the insurgents base their fight against "crusaders" and those who cooperate with them. Going to Iraq as a member of a Christian group was going in with a huge target painted on the chest.

These people even have said they went "knowing the risks." I wonder if they considered as part of the risks the potential for being killed in such a way that many in America and England would see their deaths as a reason to fight harder there?

There are plenty of ways to be an activist for peace... putting yourself in the crossfire between Muslim fanatics and American adventurers should be an obviously bad choice. I think it's a shame that Mr Fox and his fellows got to see the very worst outcome of their poor choices. I ony hope that others like these will think about their families and friends before they choose to ignore the risks.

Eric and others, while I did not know Tom Fox personally, he and I have mutual friends.

From my converstaions with these mutual friends, Tom KNEW the risks, yet his love for humanity and peace lead him to Iraq. Watch the stories from FOX 8 & News 2. These people talk of Tom.

Tom did not want those whom we call fanatics to be villified, rather he desired that they be viewed as nothing less than a human being, just like he.

At this time, I do not have a clearness on putting myself in the situation that Tom Fox placed himself. However, I do have clearness on protesting the US Military Boondoogle in the Middle East. Were it not for this, Tom Fox might be alive today!

Shalom

Tom's Christian witness for peace was very direct and obviously dangerous. His death brings sadness to many. However, it is the lack of a direct witness for peace and forgiveness, from the Christian church, that should bring us the most sadness.

From the back row; a resounding AMEN to John Young's closing statement!

Shalom

Following Jesus is not easy. Tom is a martyr. He is an inspiration in that he was willing to die for what he believed. Amen Tom! Rest in peace my brother.

I can't help wondering about people. I would think that living in peace and security would be a universal desire of just about every human being. But as a species, we seem uninterested in striving for that goal. No matter how many "martyrs" are sent packing, no matter who says it, "just getting along" is not an option. Is it really that bloody difficult?

eric, undoubtedly getting along is difficult. Humanity has been "at odds" with itself almost since the beginning. (I speak from my Christian perspective here.)

As a Christian, I strive to be peaceful with ALL in EVERY aspect of my life. Sadly, I fail more times that I like to admit.

For Tom Fox, as a Quaker, PEACE was a Testimony to which he adhered. For information on this and other Quaker beliefs, visit www.quaker.org.

Shalom

Darryl, I have to respectfully disagree with you on one point. Peacefully getting along with others is not hard... once you learn how to do it. At least, that's been my experience overall.

I only wonder at the people who apparently have lost sight of the best goal possible for humans, and feel they can buy their way to a peaceful afterlife by fighting their fellow humans in the only life they currently have.

nemo, point taken and noted. I like the way it was stated! If only others (including myself) could/would do likewise in other areas of these blogs it would be a much better internet experience.

shalom