OPINION:
More than 100 years ago, the philosopher George Santayana observed in his book “The Life of Reason” that “those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” Today I would add that those who fail to heed the mistakes of history are condemned to make those mistakes again and again.
It seems that more than just a few of history’s repeated, unlearned lessons center around long-standing prejudices, ancient conflicts, long- remembered abuses/offenses to and by those long departed. These continue to be the reference moving forward for many groups. These folks may define themselves by their government, country, race, religion or ethnic origin, or some combination.
Since the the past is sealed in time, it is only by looking to the future, keeping an open mind and remembering the teachings of our creator — as well as the lessons of history — that we can find a better life for us all.
JOHN MALLEN
Marco Island, Florida
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