The Wishlist

We are entering a new year. 2009 precisely speaking, and all over the world people are making wish-lists or new years resolutions, which are quite personal and subjective. And that is exactly what my list is going to look like- the main difference will be that I will focusing on world events and the "rational actor" will be the international arena. So below are my hopes and fears of the coming year...
I hope that;
-President Obama acts with realism and ideology immersed in each other, not with the latter clouding his judgment of the world.
-There is a solution to the Iraq problem; although it seems impossible for the Shi'i's, Sunni's and Kurd's to peacefully coexist.
-Palestine and Israel understand that there needs to be compromise, and that one party originates this attitude.
-The bureaucratic corruption, that exists in all the countries in the Eastern Middle, can be understood as the origins of the turmoil. Rogues must be terminated.
-Religion, all of them, in extremist vision, harms the world. No one should be demanded to believe, or harmed because of their views.
-Youth is given more importance. After all, they are going to be the statesmen in the future. So more importance to education.
-Diplomacy can provide many solutions if carried on by diplomats, not people who pose as.
-Mustafa Kemal Ataturk is not remembered and praised, but embraced and internalized. His views of a modern and secular Turkey do not demand that people view him as a god, but carry his ideals and objectives in a peaceful manner.
-Turkey does not hope for membership to the European Union. All the indications are visible; Turkey is not welcome.
-Machiavellian politicians decrease in numbers.
-More importance and capital is given to the many humanitarian problems of the world. Not for appearance but from the understanding that we all deserve the highest standard possible.
-The economic downfall ceases. Many that are unemployed are hired, so people can bring food to their tables.

It should be understood that as long as individuals exist there will be differentiating views on issues. The most important thing is that we learn to respect others.
My fear for the coming year is that not even one of my hopes will become reality. Even one of these has the potential to change the world. As long as there are people who believe that coexistence can happen there is a chance.

Happy new year.
May it bring much needed love, peace and harmony to our lives and to the lives of others...