World War II

Yesterday, September 1st, marked the 76th anniversary of the German invasion of Poland.  This act of aggression was manifest of the already dark times occurring in Europe, and a sign of darker times to come.  Many will ignore history through denial, for example: saying the Holocaust never happened.  As ugly as certain periods in history may be, they continue to remain essential to the shaping and molding of humanity and our relation to one another, our fellow-man.  External behaviors of the Holocaust, not respecting a country's political borders through invasion, acting rudely toward another person, and so much more, are merely external behaviors reflecting the condition of the individual's heart.  Many conditions and outside influences shape and mold us as we grow as a person, but ultimately it is up to us individually to determine who we are and what we believe, not our environment.  What society views as outcasts from mainstream living, are people who have decided they will not become defined by other people's standards: right and wrong through morality and ethics, working hard instead of entitlement (welfare) living, and a host of other foundational or core beliefs.  These beliefs are contrarian to society at-large and alienate us from the vast majority of the population who are desperately getting on board the bandwagon instead of choosing to think for themselves and daring to act singularly.  This does not advocate diversity, but simply the act of not swaying to the winds of political expediency or political correctness.  Let us not seek to polarize ourselves and society any further than what has already taken place.  May we think for ourselves, become our own person through rugged individualism, and take root in strong moral and ethical beliefs which will ground us from the ever-changing winds of relativism.  Each person has anniversaries in their lives.  May they act as places of remembrance to mark our journey of growth.