REMEMBERING OUR PAST
– NOT LIVING IT AGAIN

War is the scourge that destroys landscapes, darkens the sky and destroys youth and innocence.  Our experience in war is that small localized wars, although receiving less  aggressive media coverage cut with the same scalpel-like precision through spirits, families, neighborhoods and the fabric of the civilizations where it occurs.

On November 11, at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month we remember with a moment of silence those who were victims of war. Our servicemen in uniform, children, families, places that ceased to be places when they were obliterated vaporized or mortared.

In this same moment we should say a silent mantra for peace and the preservation of humanity, and put the most powerful thoughts we can into the spiritual miasma. In those thoughts and projections we must remember that war accomplishes alliances of convenience for those who do not  fight, but need war to enrich themselves and expand their territories and trade. Not much different in our modern times from the adventurist conquerors of yor, except that they need not raise a sword…..only send an email, dispatch a messenger, or include a briefcase full of money to sweeten transactions.

Prevention of war?  Remember each day that everyone and everything is connected. Try to make a conscious  decision to use fair- trade products from countries where oppressive regimes have consolidated power. Stay informed. Speak out, and affiliate yourself with like-minded people.

What difference does it make to the dead, the orphans, and the homeless, whether the mad destruction is wrought under the name of totalitarianism or the holy name of liberty and democracy?
- Gandhi