Let the Peace Dialogue Begin

I wanted to express my gratitude for Kathleen Hendrix’s article on local Arab-Jewish dialogues (“Oasis of Understanding in Desert of Despair,” April 12). It was a fine, comprehensive report that gave a clearer picture of what, at times, seems like a vague, confusing situation.

As a participant in a number of the organizations mentioned, I’ve seen firsthand how attitudes can change for the better once people start communicating openly with each other. We don’t kid ourselves that problems will be solved overnight. And we know that the effort has to spread from the grass-roots level all the way up to the political leadership in every country involved. But it won’t happen unless or until someone makes a start. And that’s what’s taking place now. The more people who get involved at this level today, the sooner we can affect the political situation tomorrow.

Why butt our heads against a stone wall? Simple. We want peace. And it won’t come by itself. We have to work for it. Considering the alternative, endless war and misery, this is the easiest goal to understand and the greatest goal anyone can lend his or her support. We welcome everyone to our table, because, in the end, that’s who this whole situation affects: everyone.

CASEY KASEM

Beverly Hills