One of the most interesting trips I ever took was 2 years ago, to Andalusia. This is the most Moorish part of Spain, and remnants of the Islamic culture are littered across the countryside, but most prevalent in Grenada, the great Moorish capital.
The story of the Islamic rulers is interesting, because they were, by and large, gentle to their people (though ruthless amongst themselves), tolerant of religion and supported education. They built great schools and hospitals. They worked closely with the Catholics and Jews alike.
Sadly, as Islamic culture regressed into its great past, they refused to move forward. Casting a longing look onto your past is not a means to an end. It will stymie your progress. The Greeks are famous for this kind of behavior, and Richard Feynman detailed it in some of his writings.
I hope the US doesn't fall into that trap. While the past can help you write the future, it doesn't tell you anything about what the future can be. That requires vision. |
