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Living with the "whatever" generation
Sixty-seven years ago today, Japanese war planes attacked and destroyed American ships at anchor in Pearl Harbor. And 67 years later, aging men and women gather all over the civilized world to lament the attack and remember their part in the war that ensued. Whether it was saving rubber, aluminum foil and other materials, rationing, rolling bandages, V-mail messages, or simply praying that a loved one would fight bravely but make it home alive.
Seven years ago last September, the USA was attacked on its own mainland soil; hit at both the seat of government and the seat of commerce and entertainment. Thousands died, few of whom had volunteered to assume any extraordinary risk. Dead quiet enveloped us for a few days as virtually all aircraft quit flying. Within a week, flags started popping up everywhere, along with the slogan "United We Stand."
As things unfolded, we remained united for all of three or four months. Seven years hence, Americans are shooting each other over the last video game on the shelf, and waiting for the latest government give-away.
If the veterans of World War 2 had envisioned the future as the world of today, I wonder whether would have been so willing to make the sacrifice to save us.