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Radical Whatevers
We often hear about radical Muslims,
And some do pose a threat.
But there are other dangerous radicals
About whom people forget.
Radical Christians and radical Hindus:
Both have been in the news.
Yes, there are even radical Buddhists
And also radical Jews.
Radical WHATEVERS can be a danger--
No matter the crusade they declare.
The problem is not one certain group,
But radicals everywhere.
To see extremists twist religion
Is especially galling;
To see it used to justify cruelty
And hatred is appalling.
All should follow their conscience but must
Let others do the same.
The freedom to choose one's path should be
A universal aim.
If people use religion to condemn
And to stifle query and thought,
Today's relevance of their religion
And values amounts to naught.
(9-20-15)
And some do pose a threat.
But there are other dangerous radicals
About whom people forget.
Radical Christians and radical Hindus:
Both have been in the news.
Yes, there are even radical Buddhists
And also radical Jews.
Radical WHATEVERS can be a danger--
No matter the crusade they declare.
The problem is not one certain group,
But radicals everywhere.
To see extremists twist religion
Is especially galling;
To see it used to justify cruelty
And hatred is appalling.
All should follow their conscience but must
Let others do the same.
The freedom to choose one's path should be
A universal aim.
If people use religion to condemn
And to stifle query and thought,
Today's relevance of their religion
And values amounts to naught.
(9-20-15)
