In reply to Comment (1) "The Ultimate Sacrifice"

Thanks ‘Anonymous’, the 1916 poem ‘A Pittance’ is a favourite of mine also. The contemporary poem ‘The Silent Ranks’, by Judy Stretton; as you said; did make prominent the same ideology that the sacrifice of a soldier is tremendous. We often overlook the plights and everyday responsibilities of others as menial in comparison with out own struggles. Everyday people suffer and die in countries torn apart by conflict, yet still we are ignorant to this, that is of course until it directly affects our lives. This is the difference between us and the far too often overlooked soldiers, who selflessly devote their lives to protect rights and decrease the numbers of innocent casualties of war. This ideology I believe is simply yet perfectly portrayed in the lyrics of the song ‘8th of November’- Big & Rich (cowboylyrics.com). The song is a stark reminder of the brutality of war and how it stays with a person throughout their entire life; the lyrics are hauntingly effective in portraying a soldier’s sacrifice.

Admittedly, I am often consumed in trivialities such as my schoolwork and hectic schedule and it is a rare occasion that I give the slightest though to those defending my country. However, as I immerse myself in these moving poems and injustices I am optimistic about my involvement in these issues in the future. I urge all of those who are as appalled by these injustices as I am to join me in raising awareness of these issues within our society.

A.B.