Do you believe you have an obligation to your country or community? If so, what is it?
March 20, 2024 | Sparkle Wednesday
Buckle up; this one is long and maybe a little heavy.
I'm currently reading "The Women" by Kristin Hannah. It's a coming-of-age tribute to the female heroes of the Vietnam War. The main character "Frankie" lives a privileged, sheltered life with her conservative parents in southern California until she enlists in the army as a combat nurse.
Frankie witnesses some of the deadliest days in Vietnam. Yet, even when she sees death, destruction, pain, and dishonesty, she's committed and stays on to serve.
This story of sacrifice and commitment got me thinking. Do we have an obligation to our countries or communities? If so, what is it?
Recently, a friend asked a family member if he fought in Vietnam. He's about that age. His lottery number was 5. He was not taking college seriously and failing. It was clear if he didn't get his shit together, he'd be going to Vietnam. Fortunately, he got a student deferment and avoided the war - probably a familiar story for people who look like me.
I believe it's my civic duty to be informed, cast my vote (always!), do my best to be a positive force in the community, and make sure my voice is heard. But unlike the protagonist in "The Women," I wouldn’t volunteer to participate in a war I don't believe in or understand.
What about you? Do you believe you have an obligation to your country or community? If so, what is it?
This is a good question, Lisa. I read The Women too. My obligation is to vote- I was a poll worker at our last election and it was a very cool experience and I’m going to do again this fall. Highly recommend- there is so much camaraderie that it makes you grateful we live in a country that runs free and fair elections basically by tons of volunteers in one day! I feel that it’s my duty to just step up and do what needs to be done in my community. When you feel like you can’t make a difference and news is depressing and we’re so divided, sure be informed but beyond that , get out there and do something ! There are so many opportunities. That’s my personal feeling and how I try to live my life. Thanks for this question.
Oof, this is a good question. In one of her speeches, Mother Theresa said, “if we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other.” I try to live ‘belonging’ in my community every day. I learn about the cultural practices in my neighborhood and honor them, I keep my fees low, I buy local, & I give freely. I vote, march or protest as needed along side my fellow humans, and try to make a difference. War and military, However, are rough concepts for me.