Throughout the 20th century and now into the 21st century, many wars have been waged. What is the purpose of war and to what benefit do we Americans seek?
To me, it is obviously something that needs a larger capability of understanding than I am able to effectively deal with.
For whatever the purpose of war may be, simply put, it's a commitment that the leaders of nations attempt to justify with acts of hostility. The "whys" of war are many. The answers are seemingly few. As members of a Christian society, we pray for the ever-changing leaders involved. Hopefully, the decisions intuitively made will not cause further harm to any individual's physical body or mind.
What we do or how we proceed is a determining factor for an equitable solution for those who want to become involved.
There is a song about war that was written by a gentleman named Edwin Star. According to my resource on this matter, local radio station personality Mr. Music Encyclopedia stated, "The song was about the Vietnam conflict in the '70s."
Then a light went on, metaphorically speaking of course. I checked my recollection of known words to that song. "War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing ... Good God you're mad ... Say it again, now. War, huh, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing."
Nothing? Is that what we were led to believe? I was too young to have any reactions to the Vietnam War any way. I was way too young to care. My response now that I have a bit more sense, knowledge and coping skills regarding war is twofold. Aspect number one: War is good for giving. There are many chances we have to give to a legitimate cause. So be cautious.
On a bi-monthly basis I have received from the Vietnam Veterans of America, a non-profit organization chartered by the U.S. Congress, a number of requests for discards. Specifically, there's a need for clothing.
Would this non-profit organization like my 12 and a half year old pair of Frankenstein-like styled boots? Boots are still considered clothing, right? The boots themselves are in need of replacements as the nerve and muscle dysfunction have morphed my left foot to a point of awkwardness. I am unable to stand upright, thus limiting my mobility. I do, however, need a pair of some sort of foot apparel that maintains the "normal" arrangement of bones of the left foot. My right foot appears to be fine, despite the high arched shape. Before I give up a necessity, I want an assurance of a replacement. I cannot give what I don't have to give.
The pants I own - for wearing - are specifically designed for wheelchair users. They are high in the back end and loose fitting. There are about five other pairs which are not in the best shape and that is because of the full leg braces I had to wear.
I'd like people to realize, if I were diabetic, I've been told by an area foot doctor that I'd be eligible to get a new pair of boots without a problem. Do I want to stick myself with a myriad of needles causing inconvenience to an overburdened governmental health care system? One of my diabetic friends told me, "It's not a death sentence (having diabetes), you merely have to watch what you eat." My hope for this man is that he's doing well.
Perhaps I ought to become a diabetic, eat unhealthy fatty foods, drink soda, not do any sort of exercise and let others take over my care. Isn't that what the American dream is?
I've thought about changing my eating habits. As former SNL comedienne Gilda Radner, who portrayed the character Rosanne Rosanadana said, "Never mind."
Michael J. Henry is a Sheridan resident. Send comments to editorial@observertoday.com.
