Dear Editor – Celia Hastings

A Letter to the Editor from Celia Hastings of Ellsworth.

As Memorial Day approaches, I think about a sign I saw at Yad Vashem (Holocaust Museum in Jerusalem):  “Forgetfulness leads to exile; while remembrance is the secret of redemption.” The sign reminds me of why it is important to remember those who served, risked, and gave their lives.

It is also important to remember the consequences of unchecked military power. In 1961, President Eisenhower warned against “unwarranted influence by the Military Industrial Complex” and “misplaced power” which could “endanger our liberties or democratic processes.”

Eisenhower’s warning is timely: After 9/11 was labeled “an attack”, U.S. defense spending more than doubled. It now sucks up 40% of tax dollars. As Reichsmarchal Goring of Nazi Germany said: “The people can always be brought to the bidding of the leaders. All you have to do is tell them they are being attacked and denounce the pacifists for lack of patriotism and exposing the country to danger. It works the same way in any country.”

But if the events of 9/11 were seen instead as “a wake-up call” from those who feel oppressed by U.S. military and financial policies, our country could change directions — “turn its swords into plowshares.” Destructive power could be converted to constructive power which would feed, house, and educate people here and elsewhere. (An infusion of registered write-in candidates might expedite this process.)

As Mohandas Gandhi said, “When I despair, I remember that all through history the way of truth and love has always won. There have been tyrants and murderers, and for a time they can seem invincible, but in the end, they always fall – always!”

Memorial Day is a time to remember, to reflect on history, to listen to wise leaders, and to move forward with humility and hope. As Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.”