Within the soul of each Vietnam veteran there is probably something that says "Bad war, good soldier." Only now are Americans beginning to separate the war from the warrior.
Interpretation
The quote emphasizes the distinction between the Vietnam War itself and the soldiers who fought in it, highlighting a need for understanding and compassion towards veterans.
Max Cleland's quote reflects the complex relationship society has with war and its veterans. He suggests that soldiers who participated in the Vietnam War are often unfairly judged by the actions and consequences of the war rather than their personal sacrifices and service. This evolving perspective urges society to recognize the distinction between the individuals who serve in the military and the political or moral judgments surrounding the conflicts they are involved in.
In practice
This quote can be used in a speech honoring veterans during Memorial Day.
Whatsoever we have over-loved, idolized, and leaned upon, God has from time to time broken it, and made us to see the vanity of it; so that we find the readiest course to be rid of our comforts is to set our hearts inordinately upon them.
The media are a corporate monopoly. They have the same point of view. The two parties are two factions of the business party. Most of the population doesn't even bother voting because it looks meaningless. They're marginalized and properly distracted. At least that's the goal.
I believe the best definition of man is the ungrateful biped.
What can we gain by sailing to the moon if we cannot cross the abyss that separates us from ourselves?
I desired dragons with a profound desire. Of course, I in my timid body did not wish to have them in the neighborhood. But the world that contained even the imagination of Fáfnir was richer and more beautiful, at whatever the cost of peril.
Every returning New Yorker asks the question: Is this still my city? I have a ready answer, cloaked in obstinate despair: It is. And if it's not, I will love it all the more. I will love it to the point where it becomes mine again.
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