We need more peaceful conflict resolution

THE EDITOR, Sir:

A peaceful demon went astray last weekend in North England and the result is that London and its environs were left burning. I wondered if the Thames had enough water to put out all that fire, literally and otherwise.

Pun aside, it is my opinion that demonstrations are never the best way to settle disputes of any sort, chiefly because they undermine and eradicate, for the most part, logical thinking and tend to breed, instead, anarchy, resentment, lack of respect for life and property (individually or state owned), among other things.

The end result is what we have seen this week: widespread destruction! What is amazing is that a number of persons who were involved in this riot do not have a clue as to why they were demonstrating. Can you imagine someone calling this fun?

Indeed, this is how demoralised we have become, and it seems that this is now a common form of behaviour in a number of nations worldwide.

We need more peaceful means of bringing matters to amicable resolutions, and I would encourage us to start implementing some of the much talked about but rarely used strategies to resolve disputes. Arbitration and mediation still work. And what about going back to basics, using the Bible and prayer? There is no limit to the power of God, you know!

Can we begin here in Jamaica to light the first candle and eradicate the darkness of demons straying around the place?

ALMEDA PINNOCK

Pinnock_al@hotmail.com