The Editor,Sir:

Some may call it a psychological power-play, others may call it weakness. I simply call it a beautiful act that should be emulated not only by our world leaders but by all people.

The recent act of the Iranian President, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad is significant contrary to the 'warlord' image that is painted of him by the United States. His freedom of the 15 British soldiers is an impressive and unexpected act. It shows that conflicts can still be resolved in non-violent ways.

According to the New York Times one of the British soldiers is quoted as saying: "We are grateful for your forgiveness". It takes a real human being to utter those words, and it takes an even bigger human being to forgive them in the first place.

Forgiveness

I know there are sceptics who will say Ahmadinejad had ulterior motives, and some who will go as far as to say that he was afraid of Britain or the United States, but really I believe that to forgive people who have wronged you is the most powerful thing anyone can do.

My word to Jamaicans is: Instead of fighting back with words, fists, manipulation and the gun, try fighting back with love, and humanity, set an example. Try walking up to the person who has wronged you and say: "I forgive you" and if you have wronged someone, take a deep breath, muster up all your courage and tell them: "I am sorry I did you wrong, I hope one day you can forgive me". To forgive and to ask for forgiveness is a more courageous thing to do than to 'war'.

I am, etc.,

C.P. LEE

chriscares@gmail.com

South Florida

Via Go-Jamaica