Michael Edwards, "Hindu outrage over play featuring Ganesh," ABC.net.au, 9/20/11

A theatre presentation called "Ganesh Versus the Third Reich" is set to appear in Melbourne, Australia this month and this article presents the current conflict over the comical representation of the sacred Hindu god, Ganesh. Without providing extensive historical or sacred background on the topic, Mark Colvin briefly introduces the basis for the anger of the Hindu population by saying "a theater group has unwittingly [w/o knowledge or intention] drawn the ire [anger] of Hindu groups over a play which features a depiction of the elephant-headed god, Ganesh". The approach this author utilizes is unfortunately misguiding. With christian thought as the dominating force in both Australia and the U.S., the majority of the targeted audience is left to make false assumptions. A deeper problem surfaces here as an example of religion in the news. Rather than used as a means of education, news articles like this encourage the ignorant prejudices and stereotypes most Americans (and Australians?) cling to. The theme of the article revolves around the frustrations of the Hindu population, yet the tone of the article becomes subtly condescending (adding fuel to the fire of the Hindu's frustrations). The author never uses directly demeaning or derogatory terminology, but his lack of descriptions/education on the Hindu subject matter fails to provide the audience the tools to make educated judgements. Until news coverage of world religions aims to provide education with the current events, the ruts that divide and separate each religion from the other will become deeper.

J.D. Gallop, "Hinduism finds a second Brevard home at Suntree site," Florida Today, 8/26/11

This article discusses the construction of a new Hindu temple called Manav Mandir in Brevard County, FL. It is interesting because it highlights the need to accommodate the diversities of these 'world religions' in our American culture. It is interesting to note the tone of the author, refreshingly positive, about the integration of this group of people into the subculture in Florida.  In doing so he illustrates the dynamics involved with accepting varying religions and he emphasizes that it can be successful to have varying opinions in close proximity. Gallop includes quotes from several Indian Hindus who will be directly affected by the construction, emphasizing the good this project will bring to the community as a whole -not just to the Hindus. This article offers an enlightening glance into the religious endeavors of the minority in America and successfully allows one to relate to these Hindus (whom they might not otherwise consider to have any common ground). Further, this article becomes subtly educating for non-Hindus, by explaining the origins of some of the Hindu practices and gods.

"Dakota Meyer and Barack Obama share Medal of Honor beer," BBC, 9/15/11

This article discusses the upcoming honors for a US marine and also explains the details behind his heroic actions. When Taliban fighters attacked this sergeant's squad in Afghanistan, Meyer rushed to the rescue of 36 soldiers. Putting himself in the fire zone to save dozens of lives is unquestioningly an honorable act of heroism, yet it is interesting to consider the following description the author provides: "Sgt Meyer manned the exposed gun-turret of the truck and killed a number of enemy fighters while intense fire homed in on their vehicle." Despite the horrors of the Taliban and other violent terrorist groups, this act of saving lives also ended the lives of some others. Granted this 'fighting of fire with fire' is what is expected of war, yet one can't help but consider the families (and potential children) of those "enemies." It becomes an exhausting downward spiral, from US support of Isreal, to 9/11 and culminating with the war on terrorism. Such extreme inhumanity and violence -based on differing ideologies and religions- seems absurd. Considering the loads of lives and money spent (from both sides) on such a battle, it becomes difficult not to question human nature. In a search for life's biggest questions (who/what is our higher power, what is meaning to this earthly life, etc) we forget to consider each other. We become distraught at the loss of American lives because as Americans we are similar. Yet, I'm sure the loss of those "enemies" led to many grief-stricken individuals on the other side. If only we could all take a step back and start over with a dose of mutual respect and acceptance. This is clearly a daunting task, but one worth attempting (as discussed prior in relation to the LIFG). As this article warrants disheartening questions about human nature, the author provides an uplifting conclusion with a quote from Meyer, "It's hard... getting recognized for the worst day of your life, so it's a really tough thing." I find this to be an inspiring thought, making me proud of my American background and honored to have people like Meyer spending months in Afghanistan. Clearly, he has not become detached from the emotional side of war which, in my opinion, makes him even more deserving of this Metal of Honor.

Omar Ashour, "Fears over Islamists within Libyan rebel ranks," BBC, 9/14/11

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-14728565

This article presents the current status of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group (LIFG) in relation to the uprisings and unrest in Libya. The LIFG, despite their disapproval for Gaddafi, has not gained much support from the West due to their violent tactics and speculated links to al-Qaeda and other terrorist groups. I had never heard of LIFG and Ashour mentions this 'historical link to al-Qaeda" near the beginning of the article -instantly warranting negative judgements within me. After 9/11 and the aftermath, fear of terrorism is tightly associated with the Islamic religion for many Americans. This association becomes most American's main experience with Islam, making it hard to acknowledge the other (positive) aspects of the religion. By connecting the Libyan "Islamic" Fighting Group with terrorism further enhances this stereotype. Yet this article is insightful when it considers the goals of the LIFG. Although most US citizens will never agree with their violent means, we can start to relate to (and respect) other aspects about their goals. This article sheds some light on the fact that the leaders of LIFG are conscious of the global repercussions of their actions. It seems as though they've realized that respect and support of other nations (namely, the West) will only come through "moderation of their behavior and ideology" (Ashour). This is illustrated in their name change, from from a violent military group to the political "Islamic Movement for Change." I have always believed these violent Islamic activists to be brainwashed (especially after the tragedy of 9/11), but this is a step in the right direction. They can still be passionate about their faith and traditions, yet they are making efforts to accomplish their goals in a civilized manner. Ashour makes it clear that this sort of transition is not a "flip of a switch" kind of movement and I agree. Although it's hard for me to remove 9/11 and other terrorist acts from association with Islam, if we can try to understand muslims a group of people (just like us) we can start to develop the respect necessary to maintain peace.