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How one sees the world around us and how things really are may be quite divergent from what is conceived as the norm. The values seem to shift with one's surroundings. People may be driven by fear, by comfort, by indifference or just choosing to fit in or be politically correct. In the midst of war and turmoil when people are thrown together into nearly impossible circumstances, therein develops a value system, that is quite unlike in times and places of abundance with little threat to life and limb.
As we were relocated to Germany and drifted from place to place, with very few and meager personal belongings not much more than perhaps a change of clothes a book or two perhaps a pencil and a piece of paper. These were clutched to our bodies in a small bundle and seldom let stray far from us. Of course, there were times when our precious treasures were mislaid. When that happened someone, who found them would try his best to return them to their owner. Stealing was unheard of since it was unacceptable. That is not to say outside of the community of refugees (which was the plight of most) it did not happen. to be sure random thefts took place in bombed-out cities and many valuable items were stolen and hoarded, however, most refugees had no heart for it nor did they have any use for stealing from one another for they were in the same "boat," as the saying goes "if you shake one end you're going to rock the other." On the other hand, the general population of Germany did not dare to loot because if they were caught, they were dealt with harshly and swiftly. That discouraged much of "man's inhumanity to man."
Listening to a speech at a dinner recently, the speaker seemed disheartened in making a point that honesty and values are sacrificed for advantage. He said that daily we see political figures in a constant effort trying to denigrate another through character assassination. They do not let lies get in their way as long as they gain perceived glory. This, however, is not true only with politicians, but the population in general.
It seems rather strange to find ourselves in the most affluent country in the world, with comfort as our companion, that there is so much misery from violence and dishonesty. The only recourse that seems to be available in witnessing the horrible acts by people is for us just to stand and wring our hands. We know that the offender will be extended infinite rights, yet those against whom the offense has been committed are doomed to be ignored.
Sensationalism rains. All around us, we see values challenged and fall victim to the self-anointed protectors of the offenders.
World War II is over half of a century behind and to be sure it was a heinous time with unthinkable loss of life and property and what man had built with his intellect only to be wantonly destroyed. As is the outcome of every war. However, reflecting on the gruesome conditions one thing stands out among the victims. The values were honored even though survival was uncertain.
Today we bend over backward to value "things" and try to acquire them at any cost. In the process, we are sacrificing interpersonal relationships, community, and most of all "family life". All for the acquisition of things. If as much effort were put into making this a better world by living and teaching values, oh how much more could be done. We could find time to enjoy the sunrise and the sunset and even smell the roses.
Val Hoover
Marietta