esrosedotblog

RE UN ITED

I grew up to venerate the United Nations.

It was created when I was 8 years old.

I took field trips to the UN from where I grew up in eastern Pennsylvania. First to Flushing Meadow and then to the new site on the East River in NYC.

We believed that this was a turning point in world affairs.

I still believe that was what happened.

There have been many twists and turns since 1945. But always, the UN has made a difference.

It has had problems. It has gotten a bit bloated on the bureaucracy side.

It is not always effective.

Some think that it is dangerous because it does not side with the US on all occasions. Some think that it is useless. It can't be both.

We had a guy, Doctor Lorenz, an ex-military guy who took us on those trips. His eyes shone with the wonder of the united people. He was proud of the institution. He had studied it and knew more than anyone, including tour guides, very embarrassing, about what went on there and how it was founded.

I remember his dedication. Taking school kids there. Talking about it.

I am glad that we, again, have a President and an administration that venerates the UN and, while realistic about its effect, still has a deep and abiding dedication to using it as a tool for good in the world.

There was a time when the US would not pay its share of the UN costs. We had an ambassador, just before now, who hated the UN. He sat in sessions and showed his contempt for the organization.

He is gone. On the margins.

So are his sorry bosses.

Labels: United Nations