People are saying “Happy Memorial Day,” “Have a good holiday,” “Have fun this weekend.” I never want to begrudge anyone fun and relaxation or especially a happy day. Still, I’m aware of this being a memorial day weekend and what we memorialize—-live lost in battles, sadness, injustice…for what? Because of what?
And so on this first day of the weekend (and, yes, after a party), I am thinking about why this suffering and loss goes on. And so of course, my mind first goes to this famous quote often repeated by high school history teachers to justify their courses and interestingly attributed to several people including these two. Followed by one quote that should be more famous.
“Those who don’t know history are doomed to repeat it.” Edmund Burke
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” George Santayana
“I’ve got news for Mr. Santayana: We’re doomed to repeat the past no matter what. That’s what it is to be alive.” Kurt Vonnegut, Bluebeard