Music for change

Responding to September 11
Madison Monthly Meeting

Minute on the Events of September 11

We join with those worldwide in mourning the immeasurable suffering caused by the tragic events of September 11 that killed people from more than 60 countries. We take comfort in the dedication and selflessness of so many who have sought to relieve this suffering.

We, who are the Madison Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends, implore our leaders and our fellow citizens to consider most carefully any actions they undertake or support in the days that lie ahead. Even as our nation moves to bring those who did the violence to justice, we cannot afford to ignore the circumstances that may have fueled such violence. To do so will put us all in further jeopardy. We do not support any actions which will injure or kill any person, for all human life is sacred � irrespective of nationality, ethnic group, or religious persuasion.

As Quakers, we seek to lead our lives in such a way as will take away the occasion for war. We do this through humble and truthful self-examination and by calling on divine guidance. History has shown over and over again that the natural human reflex to strike back and seek revenge inevitably leads to repeating cycles of violence. We believe our nation is in danger of so reacting. We can see with our own eyes the destruction caused by the attacks of September 11. They have made us aware of our vulnerability, but they also demonstrate how impossible it is to achieve security through military might.

We commend the President and all peoples who are speaking out against prejudicial words and acts. Let us embrace diversity and difference in the world as the enrichment of our souls rather than the impoverishment of our security.

We call on all to seek peaceful solutions that respect all human life. Let us measure greatness by our dedication to creating cultural understanding and economic justice worldwide.

September 23, 2001

"You have heard that it was said, you shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy. But I say to you, love your enemies, bless those who curse you, do good to those who hate you, and pray for those who spitefully use you and persecute you."
Matthew 5:43-44, New King James Version

Madison Monthly Meeting of the
Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) 1704 Roberts Court
Madison, WI 53711
608-256-2249
http://www.danenet.org/mmm/