Remember Remembrance Day.

11.11.18  On the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month marked the end of WWI.  No doubt there were celebrations, but more like celebrating in a cemetery. Partying with corpses.  It is/ was not intended to be celebratory, but contemplative. “Lest We Never Forget”. Teach future generations the ghastliness of war as to not repeat history.

Unfortunately, this narrative has changed.  In the US, where there was no real homeland conflict, it was easier to make light of the War when most Americans were not in it. Over time, Remembrance Day in the US became Veteran’s Day- officially declared so, in 1954… Cold War Era. Soldiers were honored and hailed as heroes which played a psychological role in drafting young men into Korea and Vietnam, and later Iraq.  Being portrayed as a hero without the baggage is at the very least misleading.  War movies contributed to this ideology. 

In comparison, the 9-11 world trade center memorial is probably as close as Americans have to a remembrance day. Although there are statues of first responders and dedications to helpers on that day, it is a solemn day.  Never forget.  

Big picture.  This is to be a day to remember horror. Silent revery for senseless suffering.  You may not know war, but you do understand suffering.  Remember the pain of that suffering.  If we do, we may not be so inclined to repeat it.  Masking war in glorified refinery perpetuates bereavement.