STRIFE: There is a real solution

There is considerable turmoil here and abroad. In just a matter of weeks, dramatic change has begun in Middle Eastern countries known for extreme ideologies and inflamed passions. There are no assurances that the new governments will be compatible with the United States. Meanwhile, this unrest makes it difficult to make predictions regarding international peace.

The United States, England and European countries such as Greece have begun to see the impact of living beyond their means. Countries that have tried to borrow their way to prosperity are beginning to see the results of this foolishness, whether done at the national or state levels.

The traditionally conservative banking industry has been on a binge that has impacted international finance, mortgages and job creation.

U.S. citizen groups have become more strident. This has been manifested in many ways. Disagreements have heightened for everything from financial management of states and schools to abortion perspectives and health care. Citizens often demand services beyond a government's ability to efficiently manage the service or pay for it.

Weather patterns have impacted food production. Adding to this, corn has been diverted from the food supply to bio-fuel production. People have gotten more desperate. Food costs are rising worldwide. Joblessness has become endemic. The number of homeless is on the rise in many places. These are not normal times.

Climate changes of all types are hotly debated with major differences in outlook. Worldwide there appears to be an increasing number of sizable earthquakes, such as Japan and New Zealand, and weather extremes, with droughts and flooding. In a world where change is often not welcomed, uncommon change is all around us.

There is only one source of stability, hope and internal joy on this Earth. We are living in an excellent time in history to individually study the claims of the Bible and draw our own conclusions, without being affected by those who may never have studied it. There is a basis for hope and peace and strength and it is not found in governments and political parties. Nor is it found in material goods or external circumstances. In this age answers and reassurance are worth seeking.

ROD SCHOBERT

Hayden