Paul Jesse
COMS 560-B01
DB#4
Article 18- Conversion as a Way of Life in Cultures of Violence
It is no secret that violence plagues our world. In lands run by the sins of fallen men
violence is all around us. It seems to run rampant in every form of society since the beginning of
man. The culture of violence is extremely complex. Militarism, oppression, exploitation and the
marginalization of the poor are among its expressions. Many individuals have varying opinions
on life and death and where peace and violence play into them. “The erroneously labeled
‘civilizations’ have integrated violence into their societies, exerting it is a defense for survival”
(Helmick, 2001, p. 385). There are countless examples of acts of violence which seem so
senseless which give reason to constantly question why does something created in his image to
produce life turn against it?
The author did an excellent job detailing the issues of violence within a culture and how
feelings of human value and existence are traits which are taught. When an individual grows up
in a violent lifestyle it is often ultimately inevitable that they too will perceive to follow in a
violent lifestyle. The author discussed the true culture of life. True culture of life can never be
brought on without forgiveness and reconciliation. Desmond Tutu states in the article “there will
be no future without forgiveness and the life changes that occur when forgiveness is genuine and
reconciliation is restorative” (Helmick, 2001, p. 287). The author spoke about the symbol of
death as being like a rusty pot. It is taken from the context of the parable of the two pots found in
the book of Ezekiel. People do not care enough to clean the pot so the pot when not cleaned
eventually becomes rusty. The only way for the rusty pot to be made clean again is for it to be
cleaned once again. “Purification will only be possible when we get rid of the violence that is
making the city in a way that cannot be effaced” (Helmick, 2001, p. 289).
I felt the author made several great points touching on the opposite of violence with
nonviolence being not just an occasional decision, but rather a way of life. “Nonviolence is a
way of life and a system of personal, social, and international chance based on the force of truth
and power of love to overcome evil and obtain justice and reconciliation” (Helmick, 2001, p.
290). Nonviolence is a way that Christ lived his life through example for us to follow in every
aspect of our lives. There are still going to be many times when we are angry or upset and desire
to resort to violence since it is in our sinful and fallen nature. However, we are to live our lives
just as Christ did and love those who wrong us.
I felt that the author did an excellent job depicting all of the trials and struggles in this
world. It is so sad to see how there are so many countries which do not hold the value of life and
peace as Christ commands us to live by. There will always be violence in our lives, but we don’t
have to contribute or be the cause of them. We can live by example and learn to have forgiveness
in our hearts so others will see the light.
References
Helmick, R.G., & Petersen R.L. (2001). Forgiveness And Reconciliation: Religion, Public
Policy, And Conflict Transformation. Philadelphia, PA: Templeton Foundation Press.
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