Of Monks and Machine Guns

It has taken me a whole to put thoughts down on this whole event – which by now will be out of our media attention, as the next news item is eagerly sought for our ravishing appetite.

Yet something quite profound was happening in Burma – the non-violent resistance of the monks – who see reality quite differently to the reality as seen and lived by the military.

Some will say that their efforts were in vain – some will argue that the only way the regime will change is through violent uprising.

Some said that 2000 years ago – in a small relatively unknown, dust bowl part of the Roman Empire after the radical message of love and justice was lived and taught by the holy man Jesus.

Those with power and guns feel invulnerable – until the root of their power is dealt with. Jesus dealt with the root of violence and war through his own life, teaching and own death – where he met death head on and showed that it was not the end. For death is the only weapon the power hungry and the violent can ultimately wield – but once death is taken out of the equation – what is there to be afraid of?

Comments

[Robert Graham]

Dear John,
Gosh, a monk and a machine gun - what a suitable title - two extremes - one warm saffron, the other cold grey, one gentle, the other spitting death, one compassionate, the other unfeeling - and one brave, the other, armed, in no physical danger. Brave, gentle, compassionate monks indeed.
What a shame we have such a small monk and nun culture here in the UK - is it the fault of Henry V111 or ourselves?