I was dealing my emails this morning and had the radio on. It was the Remembrance Service.
I always find myself ambivalent. I do not find this a simple thing. Emotionally I am in a strange place. Perhaps it is my view towards the Vietnam War and the later Iraq and Afghan wars. Then we have Syria, Iran and Libya. War rarely sorts out anything.
Should I wear a red poppy, a white poppy or no poppy?
I do appreciate the fact that we are safe, that we have a democracy (imperfect but better than not having one), that we are ruled secularly, that we have freedom of speech and equality. I enjoy living in a pluralistic society without the misogyny, racism and intolerance of many cultures.
I do appreciate the huge sacrifice and bravery of our troops. My father and grandfather both fought in the world wars.
I would like to recognise the efforts and sacrifices of our soldiers.
However, I do not have any faith in the decisions made by governments. I believe they lie and misrepresent, that they have political agendas and economic reasons for their decisions. How many wars are created for political or economic reasons and have nothing to do with our security? What distorted propaganda was put out by the CIA and British Intelligence? What destabilising has gone on?
I only have to look at Chile, Argentina, Vietnam, Cambodia and Africa to see the result of political intrigue.
How important was oil? How are we playing one group against another to our own advantage?
Which wars would I support? Which do I think were legal? How much are our views being manipulated?
I do not find these easy questions.
I would like to wear a poppy to support the soldiers who have suffered tremendous life-changing injuries (mental and physical) or death and their families.
I would consider, as a pacifist, wearing a white poppy to show that support while opposing war.
But I do not like the whole pageant of Remembrance Day. I do not like the way the Establishment, who I consider to be behind many of the unjustified wars, take the leading part. The politicians and aristocracy, who made the decisions, now stand there while those who make the sacrifices march past.
I detest the military aspects. I find it very martial and all about military power and to have a triumphal air. The military music is not about remembrance to me. The uniforms, flags and marching speaks of arrogance, strength and war – not sadness.
The whole business reeks of hypocrisy to me!
