There are reasons that do not fit in with the American character. We do not remember so that we can keep the hate alive. The Spirit of Reparations and Vengeance is not American. It comes from the ancient concept of “an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.” Americans follow a different rule.
(Matthew 5:43-4 KJV) Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;That is why we built up Japan and Germany after World War II. To many it seemed stupid. It certainly went against all the traditions of history. It created two allies that may disagree and disappoint but are still allies.
We remember so that it will not happen again. Being allies and friends does not mean being stupid. The lesson of Pearl Harbor was to remain vigilant. It was not to disarm but beware. I live in a great neighborhood. I have great neighbors. I still lock my doors.
President Reagan made an observation. I doubt if he was the first one and I hope he won’t be the last. I paraphrase, The best way to avoid war is to be so strong that no one will risk attacking you. And of course that strength must be real, not just smoke and mirrors. The fleet at rest in Pearl Harbor was not weak. It was simply unprepared. The time to take a nap is when someone else is alert.
So remember Pearl Harbor. Forgive but do not let that be an excuse to rest on our laurels.
homo unius libri
So true.
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