At last, a reason for hope! We now have the "Road Map to Peace" (a copy is our top Feature Article this month) and, as expected, the prospect for agreement between the Israelis and Palestinians is surrounded by controversy. There is no shortage of negativity since some people see no chance of this process succeeding, while others doubt the sincerity of either side. Still others reject the entire concept of a two-state solution. The arguments against the "road map" are many and varied.

I believe we are at a point where we must put doubts aside and offer some positive energy to this effort. Certainly, the fighting and killing must end. Both sides are going to have to make concessions, some of which, as Prime Minister Sharon said, will be painful. Concessions however, could hardly be more painful than the bullets and bombs that continue to maim and kill people.

The time for debating the merits of a Palestinian state, or the right of Israeli occupation has expired. No amount of intellectual discussion or analysis will take the place of positive action. Suicide bombings and IDF retaliation achieve nothing but bloodshed and death. The "road map" offers an opportunity that the rest of the world needs to support and encourage.

Undoubtedly, the road to peace will be long and bumpy, and we are guaranteed detours and barricades. It is pointless though to approach this process with a negative mindset. If we look for reasons for this "road map" to fail, it will. We cannot predict the outcome, but you don't need to be clairvoyant to know that failure ensures more death. Children will be orphaned, parents will grieve, and innocent lives will be lost while accusatory fingers try to point the blame at the other side.

In the late 1960's, during the height of the Viet Nam war, John Lennon coined the expression "Give peace a chance." At the start of the 21st century, that sentiment is more relevant than ever. Each of us could bury the "road map" in a morass of grievances and philosophies, which justify our natural tendency to be suspicious and distrustful of others. Success though, depends on our ability to put doubts and misgivings aside, so we can finally "give peace a chance."

We've received some very positive comments regarding the new design of the Megillah. The input from our Megillah family has been enormously helpful in our continuing efforts to enhance and refine the format. The new design is a work in progress and we are grateful for the suggestions many of you have made. As the new Megillah continues to evolve, you will see some of your suggestions incorporated into the design. We're proud that so many people look forward to reading each new issue of both the weekly and monthly editions.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to everyone who has helped us with financial contributions. The expenses of providing this service are on going and your assistance is always needed. Arnold and I are pleased to do our share of the work involved in making this forum available on the Internet, but we need all of you to help us if you can. We have always considered the Megillah to be a family effort, and we depend on you, our Megillah family members to join in to keep this venue available to our community. Please click on the tzedakeh link on the contents page for information on how you can help support the Gantseh Megillah.

As a final note, I would like to wish a Happy Father's Day to all of the dads who do so much for their families every day of the year.

Much love to all of you,
Michael
Editor