Rise to the occasion!

Rev. A.H.B. Breukelaar, PhD
P.P. de Waal, MA


As our civilisation trembles under the weight of the events of September 11th, we all face fear and uncertainty over the things that will be. Yet too much focus is on the threats, whereas this threshold in history offers us great opportunities as well.

Never has it been more evident that it is in our own interest to come understanding with our cultural minorities as much as today. Let us make this a genuine embrace of friendship and compassion according to the very basic values we believe in, not one of fear and suspicion.

The large international coalition against terrorism does not have to limit itself to an armed struggle against terrorists and those who support them Certainly, those who are guilty must be pursued and brought to justice. But it is also clear that a military confrontation alone will not provide a solution in the long run. Here is a chance to forge a solid international framework for co-operation beyond this single goal.

The first glimpses of a possible new era are there, yet have gone by virtually unnoticed. The US government recently has paid all its dues to the UN, Russia is strenthening its relations with the US and Europe. Who could have imagined twenty years ago, that two blocks who have opposed each other in bitter ideological conflict during the past century would come this close together? So, there is hope.

During his election campaign, president Bush spoke of his desire to relive the days of the Great Generation, that fought in the Second World war. That was a great generation of Americans indeed. If not for their sacrifices, the world might still suffer under the terror of global tyranny. Now is the opportunity to rise to that level of excellence once more.

Let us remember a specific measure of excellence of that generation. Shortly after the Second World war, general George C. Marshall, recognised, that an enemy once defeated, should not be humiliated and brought to economic misery if one wants to prevent extremism to come to power and wage war once more. Between 1948 and 1952 billions of US dollars were loaned and donated to the nations ruined by the war. As a result, Europe flourished and has known more peace and stability than ever before. Moreover, the help was mutually beneficial. As Europe rebuilt its industry, US industry filled the gap and prospered as well.

Now is the time to breathe new life into the Marshall concept. As the world economy takes a slow but unavoidable downturn, partly accelerated by the events of September 11th, it needs a powerful impulse. New markets need to be created to generate a continuous economic growth, both in the West as in those parts of the world where the free market has done little to improve the standard of living until now. By redirecting the vast economic resources of the West to those areas, we can achieve prosperity and stability in regions that have been torn apart by hunger, frustration and war. Let us give people a perspective that is worth working for. Let us make the free market an instrument of peace instead of a mere vehicle for selfishness and materialism. Let us make human lives count instead of short term profits.

As did the US between 1948 and 1952, we will see that to do good unto others, is mutually beneficial. Not only do we help nations build a peaceful, just and stable society, we also help our own faltering economies to recover. And we will be able to enjoy a certain peace of mind, as we know that we did not acquire our wealth at the expense of others.

This, of course, cannot be brought about simply by donating large amounts of money alone. Coherent programmes need to be developed and plans need to meet a cohesive set of criteria. We must ensure that this form of economic aid will not evaporate as a monsoon’s shower in the desert, but make the barren soil bloom permanently.

We can make this happen. It requires a lot, but the results will be just as rewarding. There is an exciting new challenge for our generation. And there is no nation on earth more capable than the US to bring nations together in meeting this challenge. Here is our chance to bring peace, stability and justice to the world. Not by the sword, but by sharing our wealth and the values we hold dearly. Let us pray that we are part of a great generation indeed and let us get our sleeves up. Let us rise to this occasion. We owe it to ourselves and the generations to come.