Following is an editorial which appeared in the third issue of The Endeavor,
a publication begun in 1989 by Texas Death Row at Ellis 1, Huntsville, Texas.

by Larry Keith Robison, #748

Most of us who are involved in the campaign for the repeal of the capital punishment laws think of it in terms of a fight or conflict, a case of "us versus them," the "good guys" against the "bad guys." Who is this mysterious "them' anyway?

By creating this division in our minds and dwelling upon it we reinforce it and give it strength and power for its continued existence. Thus, under the goad of fear and mistrust, we are kept divided and are at odds with one another. What are we really accomplishing in this way? We need to start examining the attitudes with which we go about the task of bringing an end to capital punishment. Do we harbor ill will, resentment, or contempt in our hearts for those who, in fear and ignorance, presently support it? Do we see them as the enemy? If so, then we too are missing the point.

The point is that there is something greater at stake here than eliminating the death penalty. Granted, it is a positive thing and a step in the right direction, but why limit our selves to that? You don't cure the patient by treating only the symptoms or they will simply keep recurring with progressively deteriorating effects each time, as the history of capital punishment has plainly shown. A more worthwhile project to take up would be the achievement of world peace and unity amongst all nations. For in the process, the death penalty will automatically fall. For some, this may seem like too lofty a goal to reach for, but in truth it is the only hope for the future of our planet. Sure, it may take awhile, but if we don't start sometime we will never get any closer. As a famous poet once said, "If not you, who? If not now, when?"

Wake up world! Weren't we all created equal in the sight of God? Don't we all have a common origin? So where does all this division and strife come from'? Brothers and Sisters, I submit to you that it is all in our minds and hearts. Shouldn't we be asking ourselves who and what it is we are fighting against? And wouldn't it be better to think of it as working for something? Think about it. World peace Why not?