What Is It Good For?

“War, what is it good for?” While the question was put to music only as recently as 1969, it is one of several questions for the ages. On this Memorial Day, when we honor those who have served, are serving and will serve in the military. And, more importantly, we remember those who gave their lives in the service of this country, I find myself asking the question again – war, what is it good for? Since the beginning of time there are so many reasons one group has chosen to do battle with another group; territory, possessions, dogma, race, religion and sometimes against pure evil. I’ve often wondered why we can’t choose peace.

Are we incapable of getting along with others? Are we not able to let others live and let live? Are we so wrapped up in coveting what our neighbor has that we believe we have a right to possess even if by force? Is it our destiny to dictate how others should run their little piece of the world? I have to wonder if the endgame is really worth the cost, financially, emotionally and in loss of life.

I do not believe warriors are born. We create them when we believe we need them. We flag_american_soldier_salutes_half_mast_us_flag-01ramp up the rhetoric surrounding the enemy, wave the flag and before you know it; a warrior is born. I do not blame the warrior. I admire them for the courage to do what I cannot. I blame governments. More importantly, I blame all of us who stand by doing and saying nothing to dial down the beating of the war drums pounding on our behalf. When do we say ENOUGH! When do we say our blood is no longer available to further an agenda set by the powerful? I wish I knew the answer. I wish I knew if there was ever an appropriate time to do battle. It seems to me we have lost track of that definition.

In the meantime, another Memorial Day is here and each year we will stand at attention, salute the flag and decorate a grave. I honor you warriors one and all that stand up when called. I honor you warriors one and all who answer the call so few of us are willing to answer. I honor you warriors one and all that gave your life so that I can ask the question once again – “War – what is it good for?” Here’s hoping one day we find an answer!

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