Admit it. You have asked yourself, “If there were no religions, would there be fewer wars?” Voltaire enters the discussion, “If there were not God, it would be necessary to invent Him.” Insecurities, fears, uncertainties, anxieties and questions lead to the “necessity” of God.

Is God necessary to explain the Boston Marathon bombing, the plane crash over Egypt, Sept. 11 and the Paris tragedy? Some say, “It is all part of God’s plan.” Julius Caesar would add, “People believe what they want to believe.”

Theologians say that the incriminated terrorists are not followers of Islam. You have heard, “Islam is the religion of peace.” Granted, all philosophies have their disgraces and discomfitures; these same theologians point to the Christian faith of Hitler, the Salem witch trials, the sermons of Jonathan Edwards and the Crusades. Should it be concluded that Hitler, Salem’s judges, Jonathan Edwards and the Crusaders were not Christians?

How does one’s mindset fit into all this? Did those who piloted their planes into the Twin Towers believe they would ascend to the heavens above and experience eternal bliss? Is it difficult to discuss the purpose of life with those who give more meaning to a life after death than to a life before death?

What must be done? First, Muslims must teach their youth that Islam is the religion of peace and practice that moral conduct. Next, allied with Jews and Christians, the Religion of Peace (perhaps ironically) must lead the war against terrorists. Finally, three voices then in harmony will sing,

“Once to every man and nation

“Comes the moment to decide;

“In the strife of Truth and Falsehood,

“For the Good or Evil side.”

Morton G. Soule

Portland