70 Years Ago: When the War

70 years ago today Nazi Germany invaded Poland and thus World War II began.  It was only a few short moments before France and England declared war on Germany.  Not long after that Russia also invaded Poland.  Europe was ingulfed in war.

Why do we remember?  Why do we mark this day in history so significantly?

We do it so that we never forget.  So that we remember the horrible toll that war plays on any nation involved with it.  So that we remember just how dangerous unrestrained nationalism and hatred can be.  So that we remember what we have fought to overcome and strive beyond over the last seven decades.

There is still war in the world, there is still oppressive governments, there is still hatred and mistrust, but there is also something to be said about hope.  There are people even in the face of adversity who dare to imagine a better world where people are not bent on killing and destroying but instead on living and building.  So we remember not because they are kind memories but becuase to forget would be a crime unforgivable.

~ by Nathaniel on September 1, 2009.