Within the United States we are infused with many races, creeds, and religious practices. One of the most diverse things about this melting pot - is that against the whole world - we have our very own complex pluralistic society that enables everyone to be able to have the freedom to choose what religion they want to practice. In wake of the most recent shootings at Ft. Hood, I feel that there must be an awakening and a realization that just because we accept one's freedom to choose their religion, we must also be aware of any pending dangers that may come along with it. Since we live in the "land of the free" - we can not simply place a discriminating limitation on ones entrance to the military due to their religious practices, but we've got to be a bit more educated and proactive in staying abreast to the "ins and outs" that one's beliefs may consist of.
Since at this point we do not have 100% assurance that the shooter is connected to any religious extremist group - we can not associate him with any particular group. In wake of September 11th, everyone wants to associate his actions to that of homage to Allah in the name of martyrdom. All individuals who practice in the name of Allah are not religious extremist. But since we do allow for Muslims to join the army - we must stay on top of any dangerous theological perspectives that one may have that may advocate martyrdom. Muslims are not the only religious practice that propagates dangers to society, but Christians and Jews as well. One may not practice them, but their "canons" do suggest it.
Where does America go from here? If this act was truly an act of religious extremism - than terrorism has his American soil again. What makes it worse is that it not only hit American soil, but it’s penetrated into our military services as well. This places a great deal of fear in the hearts of Americans, because if our military can be hit - than our line of defense is weakened. We need to take a situation such as the Ft. Hood shooting as a wake up call. In light of our love and compassion for ones thoughts, beliefs, and decisions, we must still stay aware and educated to any pending dangers that we may be up against. If we do this - than we may be able to prophetically name a danger and offer an alternative outcome before the lives of others are placed in danger. We must stay educated and take the necessary precautions when necessary.
I would like to hear more about your comment that Christian and Jewish "canons" suggest things that may pose dangers to society. This is an interesting point. You could develop that even further, I think. Blessings!
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