War, what is it good for?

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I think these lyrics were penned for the Vietnam war but I can’t help but think of it at ANZAC time.  This year has been marred by the tragic helicopter accident so will be burned into our memories more than many perhaps for those of us born post war.

Rather than comment on the rights/wrongs/good/bad of war, because it is a very complex and emotive subject, I was thinking as I drove past the closed shops on Sunday that this remembrance is important as it brings a dignity and acknowledgement of what so few did to preserve the freedom of so many.

My father was a child in Europe during the second world war so he saw a different war to the ANZAC’s.  He lost his father, his home and ultimately his country and I think spent most of his life trying to forget what he had witnessed as a 9 year old.

So to see so many young and old gathering together to remember just how important the actions of our soldiers have been, without any shame or guilt, is a wonderful thing.

We are wired for ritual and remembrance in our DNA and I can think of few higher callings to maintain than to celebrate our achievement and sacrifice at Gallipoli and subsequent conflicts and attacks on our freedom.

Stay Inspired and Stay Safe ~ Dean Letfus