Memorial Day

Memorial Day is one of those holidays that nearly lost its meaning since they made Federal Holidays fall on Mondays (in 1971) so we could have extended weekends. It mainly signals the beginning of summer, with summer vacations starting somewhere near that time, with Labor Day, another Monday holiday, being the other goalpost of summer. It's a time when there are huge sales on everything imaginable, consumerism gets a big boost. The long weekend is also an opportunity to release movies that are expected to be summer blockbusters (with Star Wars back in 1977 setting the trend). The Indianapolis 500 happens. I think most people either have family gatherings and cookouts, get out on the waterways, go camping. We are no better. I used the opportunity of the Monday holiday to add a day or 2 vacation from my day job (just because I can) so that I can catch up on other work and maybe even have a few extra free hours here and there.

Memorial Day was originally intended to honor American Civil War dead but now is meant as a day to remember all dead soldiers regardless of the conflict. I don't see why it should be limited to American dead when so many people from so many nations have died fighting for our causes -- and the cause of all these deaths, when viewed from a larger perspective, is that people have answered a call of duty to defend their nation or homes from a perceived threat, and out of respect for their country and families, they do what they feel must be done. It is sometimes unavoidable to become involved as there are issues of self-defense and civil defense that are unresolved when the conflict arrives at your door.

I personally don't believe that it is possible for humans to not be at war with each other. I don't support war. I hate it and will never support it. But ever since our first ancestors formed tribes and created weapons we've been killing each other for land and power. There will be peace on earth when the planet becomes devoid of humans.

...and with that sad and cynical reflection, I have posted one of the most beautiful songs I've ever heard that deals with the topic of war. From this band, most would prefer Brothers in Arms, but I give you Iron Hand, by Dire Straits (1.7 MB mp3)

With all the clarity of dream
The sky so blue, the grass so green
The rank and file and the navy blue
The deep and strong, the straight and true

The blue line they got the given sign
The belts and boots march forward in time
The wood and leather the club and shield
Swept like a wave across the battlefield

Now with all the clarity of dream
The blood so red, the grass so green
The gleam of spur on chestnut flank
The cavalry did burst upon the ranks

Oh the iron will and iron hand
In englands green and pleasant land
No music for the shameful scene
That night they said it had even shocked the queen

Well alas weve seen it all before
Knights in armour, days of yore
The same old fears and the same old crimes
We havent changed since ancient times