Anzac day has been described as “our national day of mourning and transcendence, of tribute and kinship.” It’s a time to a time to “reflect on courage and lament loss, to celebrate mateship and loyalty, to show compassion and respect.” War is not something that should ever be celebrated or glorified.
The Australian contingent in World War I was made up entirely of volunteers – the only country in the world where this was the case. Every family in Australia’s population of around 5 million people was touched by this war. Most of us who were born and grew up in Australia have never known conflict and we are grateful for those who did sacrifice so much that we might live in peace. I am grateful to God for having been born in this country.
There have been some born here who have experienced conflict and they are those who serve in our military forces. Many of them bear the scars (both physical and emotional) long after their tour of duty. This Anzac Day it does us good to reflect on their courage and lament the loss both they and their families have experienced (or are experiencing) on our behalf. Respect and compassion are something we should show them all the time, not just on Anzac Day.
The Australian: Enduring symbolism and sacrifice of Anzac Day
