World Peace, Personal Peace by Daisaku Ikeda (NAPSA)—A noted educator and spiritual leader has come up with a number of ideas that could help prevent and deter terrorist attacks while helping many people live better and feel better. Here are some highlights: Combating Crime And Terror As a prerequisite for the pre- vention of terrorism, we must makethe principle of “punishment before the law” the firm and united stance of the international community. A specialized standing organization within the United Nations can combat international crime as the core of an international law enforcement network. In addition to strengthening deterrence systems, it iS neces- sary to address and remedy some fundamental conditions. It’s time for a “humanrevolution,” a deter- mination to seek the fundamental humanity in each individual and construct “the defenses” of peace within our own hearts and minds. Fighting Poverty And Hatred The fight against poverty, hatred and dehumanization may seem a circuitous route to the eradication of terrorism, but if we lose sight of these ultimate chal- lenges, we may find ourselves under the sway of the negative. This is why it’s so important to gain an accurate understanding of the actual conditions of the times and society, resisting the urge to impose some preconceived notion of the ideal on complex humanrealities. The equivalent of a global Marshall Plan could use money freed by debt relief to the most heavily indebted poor countries to alleviate poverty, for education, health care and medical treatment and to enhance the social infrastructure. =a ’ offs : Spiritual ideas may help the world, the family and the individual meet the challenge of trying to have both peace and security. Planning Reconstruction It is crucial to develop compre- hensive strategies to prevent and resolve regional and ethnic conflicts. We must then support post- conflict reconstruction to enable people to live normallives. Finding Peace And Happiness A consciously interactive, inter- dependent wayoflife, instilling confidence, hope and couragein ourselves and others is one that can mean happinessfor individuals and move the entire world in a truly creative and peaceful direction. Daisaku Ikeda, a recipient of the United Nations’ Peace Medal, is president of Soka Gakkai International (SGD), a Buddhist association active in the areas of peace education, cultural exchange, envti- ronmental awareness and humanitarian relief. Free Information For a free copy of Daisaku Ikeda’s ideas on promoting happiness and harmony, e-mail: peace@sgi-usa.org or visit Www.sgi-usa.org.
