What does networking have to do with the war in Iraq? Everything!

We are at an unprecedented moment in history, where many of the institutions of our culture are being examined with new eyes. One of these is the institution of war.

As early as 1980, some people were beginning to suggest that war had become obsolete. By "obsolete" it was not meant that it no longer existed. What was realized was that the war no longer worked the way it was intended.

From this, new thinking has emerged, to challenge the use of war to resolve conflict. The war in Iraq is a classic example of the failure of war, and is a great learning opportunity. If we can open ourselves now, and let the needs of the world touch our hearts, we can work together to retire the institution of war once and for all.

Replication

If it were possible for one person, one leader, to solve the war predicament, we could sit back and let this happen. Unfortunately, since we are needing to change our culture... and because culture resides in the collective values of the community, we will need to change our thinking together...one human at a time.

We need a "distributed functionality" now if we are going to move beyond war.

How will this happen? Through the use of the Internet, and e-mail, and through replication of our efforts. This has been called "viral marketing" by some, and it is the way a virus spreads.

It is also the way an idea spreads. Only we use conversations, and the sharing of resources, to make this work. And, we need to do this together, from the "ground up" if you will. After all, we are all in this together.

What to do

Spend some time reviewing the various articles and resources on this Web site. Then, make a plan... whom you will contact and what you will say. Most important:

• Be sure the URL you send is correct... it has a hyphen in it
• If you copy this into an e-mail, include the "http://" part and your recipient will be able to open the link with just a click of the mouse.
• The URL is: http://www.beyond-iraq.com
• Be sure to encourage your co-worker or friend to replicate your efforts, to "spread the word" to all their friends also. The goal is a worldwide dialogue about the institution of war.
• Remember, some people will say war is inevitable, or tell you that "mankind has always gone to war." Personally, I would not argue with this... it is probably better to move on, and try to engage a different person, who is more open.
• It is VERY important, if you are serious about helping, that you work steadily at this, preferably every day. Just set a few minutes aside and see how much you can get done. One good email per day is better than ten poor ones.
• If you contact media or government, be professional and to the point. These people are busy. Show respect and you will make progress.

That's about it. As NIKE says, "Just do it"

Thanks!

© 2007 Beyond Iraq