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Hello Hearts on Fire Family!
My thoughts on Veterans Day…
When I mentioned that I would like the choir to perform a song at our November concert honoring veterans, I detected some reservations from some choir members. I would like to present my position on this to all of you as our show does fall on Veterans Day.
First, honoring veterans is not an endorsement of war. I’m well aware of the destruction, carnage, injury and the loss of life of innocent men, women and children during war. I know that there have been unjust and immoral wars.
One question I think we all should deal with is how does a society respond to actions like Nazi Germany’s efforts at world domination with a brutality that included the killing of 6 million Jews, Gypsies, gays, and others that the Nazis believed should not exist.
For Centuries the Tibetans perfected a culture of Spirituality, non aggression, and harmony with all people, happy to live their lives within their own country. Yet, they were invaded by China, and their culture was systematically destroyed. The Tibetans live under China’s intolerant and repressive governance today.
In Ukraine we have seen the extremely brutal invasion by Russia. The Russian government has engaged in actions without regard to civilians, schools, hospitals, or any semblance of concern for humanity.
So, yes I am opposed to war. In fact, every inch of my being is about promoting PEACE. But, how should society respond in these instances?
There are many people who joined the military believing with all their heart that joining was a moral, higher calling meant to protect the men, women, and children, as well as the culture of this country. Others have joined to learn skills that they can bring back to civilian life to create a better life for themselves or to serve our society.
Many veterans have returned from military service with extreme disabilities. Some have PTSD that can devastate a veteran and their families. Some have returned with brain damage, loss of limbs or paralysis. Some have lost their lives, leaving behind spouses, children, and other family and friends. This is tragic, and the pain of this is real to me. I have people very close to me, including my son that have struggled with life upon returning from service.
I believe it is appropriate to honor all of these men and women who have offered to sacrifice their lives for us.
The Veterans community spans the spectrum of political and social thought. Both Democratic and Republican Veterans have been elected to public office. There are numerous conservative (VFW) and progressive (Vote Vets) Veterans organization that are politically active throughout our country. Honoring Veterans is NOT a political statement or endorsement of policy. It is simply acknowledging the sacrifice these men and women have made for us.
I hope you better understand my position on this. I believe that honoring our Veterans in some way, be it with a song or a moment of silence, at our concert on Veterans Day is the right thing to do.
Peace,
Debi
XOXOX
Deb
PS…I will still send my Monday email. See you Wednesday!
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