How hasn't the world learned from Rwanda? I don't understand how something terrible has to happen for the world to realize that we need to come together as one and stop the violence. Syria is on the fast track to becoming the next genocide stricken country. Violence and harm and discrimination only lead to trouble. The people of Syria need help to get along and stop the violence.
CST has taught me that the international community must respond quickly and effectively. If there is even a threat of genocide there needs to be immediate action and intervention. I think using the seven main principles of catholic social teaching is a great guide to dealing with crises nationally and internationally. It may not be as easy because that involves countries actually working together toward the betterment of another country, but it is possible in the simplest sense: reaching out. People in general should use the seven principles, life and dignity of the human person, solidarity, participation and community, preferential option for the poor,, care for God's creation, rights and responsibilities, and finally dignity and rights of workers, as guides in their everyday lives. As a nation, the US can use these principles to help bring together the civilians as one, and work toward a closer-knit community of caring Americans. I think it is possible to do this because you don't have to identify yourself as a Catholic or even as a Christian for these principles to make sense and work. They are easy ideas to live by and even easier to follow through with if people are willing to accept each other.
