Unresolved Conflict
What does the prefix un mean?
Resolved is a synonym for settled. A resolved conflict is an argument or fight that is
settled.
This day in history marks the official beginning of World War I, when Austria-Hungary
declared war on Serbia. The events that led to declaration of war didn't occur
overnight, however. The governments of Austria-Hungary and Serbia had been in
conflict for years.
Tensions between the two countries erupted on July 28, 1914, and the largest, most
devastating war that had ever occurred was the result. World War I was so horrible
that when it ended, people said it was “The war to end all wars.” People who had
lived through World War I never wanted to see anything like that happen again.
Unfortunately, we know that World War I wasn't the war to end all wars. The disputes,
arguments, and feelings of hatred that were left unresolved at the end of World War I
led to an even bigger war – World War II. The reasons for World War II can be traced
directly back to conflicts that weren't resolved, or settled, at the end of World War I.
Arguments and conflicts that aren't settled never lead to anything good. This is true
whether the problem is between two countries or two people. Solving conflict can be
unpleasant, but it's always better than letting problems go unresolved. Unresolved
conflict simmers and grows, until it erupts into something even worse.
Take a few minutes to think about your relationships today. Is there any conflict,
issue, or hurt feelings you need to resolve? While it might sound easier at first to
ignore a problem, use what you know about the unresolved conflicts that have so
often led to war to encourage you to work out a solution.
Do you think the world would be a better place if everyone followed this simple
advice?
© Lisa Duffy