TALKING IS BETTER THAN FIGHTING

People, who are so frustrated with their government that they take to the streets in the face of gunfire, are courageous people. These protesters often refuse to talk to the government until a huge demand is met. I think this is a mistake.

Of course, there are dictators like the late Gaddafi of Libya. I could always tell when Gaddafi was going to stage an attack, because he always offered a truce just before he attacked.

However, democracy does not work unless people talk to each other. Democracy requires compromise between people who disagree.

So, if talk is offered, choose several respected, articulate representatives who are currently outside of the country in dispute. Insist on a neutral spot to negotiate, such as Switzerland. Insist that all participants are protected from assassination.

Talking may not help. I do believe some dictators have a world view that is rooted in the fantasy of their omnipotence. This is especially true if a parent taught the leader that he "was born to rule."

But if a leader is capable of understanding someone else's world view, then at least the leader will then understand the reasons that his streets are filled with protestors.

GOOD LUCK TO THE NEGOTIATORS.