Quote by Thomas Merton, letter to Czeslaw

I certainly do not consider myself permanently dedicated to a crusade for peace and I am beginning to see the uselessness and absurdity of getting too involved in a 'peace movement.' The chief reason why I have spoken out was that I felt I owed it to my conscience to do so. There are certain things that have to be clearly stated. I had in mind particularly the danger arising from the fact that some of the most belligerent people in this country are Christians, on the one hand fundamentalist Protestants and on the other certain Catholics. They both tend to appeal to the bomb to do a 'holy' work of destruction in the name of Christ and Christian truth. This is completely intolerable and the truth has to be stated. I cannot in conscience remain indifferent.

Summary

In this quote, Thomas Merton reflects on his involvement in the peace movement. He acknowledges that he doesn't consider himself fully committed to it but felt compelled by his conscience to speak out against the dangers posed by certain belligerent Christians. Specifically, he points out the absurdity and intolerance of using violence, even in the name of Christ and Christian truth. Merton believes that remaining indifferent to such issues is not an option for him, hence prompting him to take a stand and speak the truth.