Resident ponders simple question

Letter to the Editor

To the editor:
   "Are you for war, or against war?"
   I was asked a great, yet simple question, this morning at the Post Office in our local village: "Are you for war, or against war?" My reply was almost too quick, albeit honest and unrehearsed, since no one had ever asked me that before. "I am never for war, but sometimes war is unavoidable," was my follow up. I am sure that to those on both sides of the issue, who understandably feel so strongly, that this would be an unacceptable answer from either perspective. But let me explain, now that I’ve had some time to reflect.
   Recognizing that the answer may not have been what this person wanted to hear, I quickly tried to defend my position, as I pointed to the envelope that I was about to mail. It was addressed to my eldest brother, who had served in the previous Gulf War. Now retired, he is no longer at the front lines, where he served as a Ranger, Special Forces in Riyadh, and later in Kuwait City. I acknowledged that I was glad that he was no longer in harm’s way, but failed to mention that I had already lost one brother, in a war of different sorts. Here on American soil, where there are many other wars being fought every day. I know how the loss of a brother or family member can wreak havoc to a family that must cope with many unresolved issues.
   Upon reflection of the original question, I have come to believe that there are those "who love to preserve the fight" and those who will "fight to preserve the love." If you feel that you are safe and secure in a society that allows you to freely speak your mind, then you have much to be thankful for. For many years, we have enjoyed such a world, being isolated from the threat of foreign assault or invasion. And in an effort to foster a similar environment for all the peoples of the world, our nation spearheaded the non-proliferation treaties, biological weapon bans and nuclear disarmament agreements. For you see, those who fail to comply with such efforts, as well as those who show blatant disregard to the nations united to foster peace, are those "who love to preserve the fight."
   Let us not forget that on Sept. 11, we were the victims. Our peace was shattered, but our resolve "to fight to preserve the love" must not be broken.
   I applaud those who seek to defuse the issues, and seek resolution in the court of international appeal. I applaud those who protest the war, knowing that the costs will be heavy in human life and life-long issues. I applaud those who are committed to defend and protect the free society of this nation, and disarm those who threaten others. For whether or not they will admit it of those who feel contrary to their position, all of these efforts are born of love. And most of all, I applaud those who are not afraid to ask the simple — although difficult to answer — questions. For their interest and concern for how others might feel is the love and compassion that we must resolve to preserve; not just for us, but for all mankind.
Victor B. Murray
Melvina Drive
Lawrenceville