OPINION:
In his book “Mayflower” Nathaniel Philbrick describes how the Pilgrims and Native Americans lived and worked together, in harmony, for 50 years after the landing at Plymouth in 1620. A generation later, however, through unfortunate isolated incidences, growing suspicions and misunderstandings, King Philip’s War erupted. This horrendous period resulted in catastrophic loses to both the English settler and Indian communities. Instead of working together as Americans, they became separated based on racial divide.
Recent events indicate we could be on the verge of something even more catastrophic. Isolated incidences have occurred, but instead of waiting for the evidence to develop, activists have used the opportunity to take chaos to the streets.
During King Philip’s War, there were Native Americans who joined forces with the English and helped win the war. Some of these were Praying Indians because of their conversion to Christianity. In the same way, people of faith must come together today.
There are misunderstandings on both side of the aisle, but there is nothing that faith is not able to overcome. We must be willing to listen, understand and trust. The future of America may depend on it.
ED MULVANEY JR.
Anniston, Ala.
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