BLOG 368 October 16, 2017
And how are things going in Israel these days? With all the turmoil in Syria and the problems created by Iran and Russia, you’d expect people to be hiding in hysteria. Not so! On September 18, the Central Bureau of Statistics released its annual report. Here’s what they found.
Eighty-eight percent of Israelis above 20 years of age say they are “very satisfied” with their lives. Only 6% say they are lonely. The work force employees report generally being satisfied. Israel now has the highest fertility rate with women averaging 3.11 babies during their lifetime. Girls now have a a life expectancy of 84.2 years and boys 80.7 years.
Not bad! How does that compare with the United States?
Nearly two- thirds, (64%) believe the country is on the wrong track. Americans generally disagree with Trump about everything from attacking North Korea to meddling with the health care system and believe the President is intent on keeping the country divided. The political parties are in the dumps with 48% viewing the Democrats unfavorably. The Republicans are even worse with 62% viewing them negatively. Only 10% report trusting congressional Republicans the most.
Americans increasingly believe President Trump listens to no one – not his advisors, his own party, or leaders of other countries around the world.
Not good!
To make matters worse, as ISIS goes down in flames in Syria their terrorist outreach continues on a global basis. On September 15, London experienced another bombing. France remains a prime target. The Herzliya International Institue for Counter-Terrorism identified the newest prime target to be Italy and the Vatican in particular.
Because the Pope is a symbol of worldwide Christianity, the Muslim ISIS movement would see such an attack as having great symbolic value. I was with the Pope the first week in June both at the Vatican and the Pentecost gathering at the Circus Maximus. Pope Francis was certainly fearless but heightened security was obvious. Terrorism has made the entire world unsafe!
And what conclusions can we draw?
Americans appear seriously skeptic of their government. Politicians increasingly don’t seem to get it. The future is cloudy. While still in the pioneer stage, Israelis are fundamentally united. They have hope in the future. Regardless of your personal persuasion, a prayer for Italy, the Vatican, and the Pope is in order. We don’t need any attacks there!
KEEP YOUR EYES OPEN!
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Dr. Robert L. Wise 