The Defenses We Build

Yesterday, the school newspaper included two opinion-articles contrasting two views on war: pacifism and "passing on pacifism." Personally, I thought both sides, both articles were well written; however, one (I bet you can guess which one) gave way to an uprise of extreme offense on part of the ROTC members. To clarify, the article for pacifism basically (and bluntly) said that we need to get rid of the ROTC program for its role in allowing and promoting "just war." While I agreed with the author, and was glad to read such an article at this school, I could understand why the ROTC memebrs took such great offense, because the author was highly critical of the military and all recruitment programs. It is true that he showed absolutely no support for the people in those programs.

However, as I listened to ROTC students talk, in absolute outrage, about this article, I realized a completely ironic situation. Those of us supporting pacifism are criticized for verbalizing our opinions when we don't support the military; yet, the ROTC members absolutely tore the author's opinion to pieces saying that he had no idea what he was talking about, he was biased. It's cliche, but we are told to appreciate military servicemen and servicewomen because they purchase our right to speak freely . . . then can you let me voice my opinion? Can you listen while I share my thoughts, while the author of this article explains his perspective?

Hmmmm . . . they seemd to take offense that the author had not "done his research" properly, and yet, have they honestly talked to, honestly listened to someone who supports a pacifist position? Have they done their research?

Perhaps I'm biased too. . . Perhaps I am too relieved to see an article in support of what I believe in to look at the article from middle ground. However, it frustrates me that I barely breathe the words "peace" or "pacifism" before people jump down my throat and block out anything I have to say... even if it's something they've never heard before. This morning I watched an ROTC member angrily pass several copies of the article to her friends, telling them to read the poorly written, biased, offensive article (on pacifism) and then read the well-written, well-researched, non-biased article (justifying war). Did she forget this is an opinions page. . . ?

I do not deny that it is difficult for me to answer the difficult questions of what to do when widows and orphans are the victims of an injust government, what the government's role is in the world, and the ever popular what would have happened in WWII, if we hadn't invaded . . .

But, just war is a complete oxymoron. I have been baffled by the fact that recently several people in support of military action have stated this . . . yet, they still cling to and place their hope and trust in military service.

Don't get me wrong: I'm still processing, still thinking, still pondering the reasonings and justifications of different positions. But, it just seems that so many times people supporting peace are told to get their facts straight and listen to the other side . . . can you honestly listen to my side this time, without building your defense?