In the Muslim world, which has a history so long that the United States is a mere pothole,  the past is not forgotten. And to make matters worse, the history of the US and Muslim world, has always been one of hostility and mistrust.  Obama has taken the first step, on a long path, in a new direction with his speech to the Muslim world at Cairo University. In his speech, Obama strove to clarify the motives and position of the United States concerning its violent actions towards the the Muslim world. Using words to express ideas and hopefully dissipate misconceptions, was long overdue as far as US and Muslim relations are concerned. It seems as though it may be too late for words. Our histories (those of the Muslim world and the United States) have reflected, though not to its extreme, the relationship between Israeli Jews and Palestinian Muslims--violence that fuels anger and a need for revenge. Both side, the US and the Muslim, have valid reasons for mistrust: the Twin Towers and the Iraq/Afghanistan/Pakistan war(s).  It would seem that the animosity between us will allow nothing but a spiral downward, toward greater losses on both sides. A simple speech will change little, if anything at all. 

Yet the speech had to be made. It was time. Time to crack open a new door, which now only the slightest sliver of light peaks through. As the history of the US and the Muslim world has been hostile and without successful compromise or communication, the future holds a chance to make things different. Of course, US troops probably will be stationed in the Middle East from now onward, but there is a possibility that the general populations of the two nations will reach a peaceful understanding. Of course, this will not occur while Obama is in office. Nor during the presidency of the next president. However, if the US government and people and the Muslim leaders and people push to have sensitivity for each other's differences and find ways to look past them it is possible that peace between the nations will occur. Obama's speech is little in itself. If tomorrow US bombs kill many Muslim civilians or if violations of trust continue to happen the speech in Cairo will be pushed to the fridges. But, if his speech marks a new era of communication, there is hope that it will lead to peaceful development. It may lead to a change where Iraq civilians can live without fear, where the millions of current Pakistan refuges may find homes, and where American's don't need to worry when I plane flies low over NYC. But, that can only be achieved if the United States continues down the route of speaking with Muslim leaders and people, not just now, but from now on. And if, in return Muslim leaders offer their positions and grievances. Both sides must be committed to the opportunities Obama's speech provides. Neither side can do it alone, and an agreement  will not be found without respect between both parties.