Anzac Day is a day that happens once a year in Australia and New Zealand. It is celebrated by both countries on 25th April every year. It was to commemorate (honour) the members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli in the Ottoman Empire during World War I. Now though, it celebrates all “who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations” and “the contribution and suffering of all those who have served.” Anzac Day is also observed in the Cook Islands, Niue, Pitcairn, and Tonga.
The ANZACs, Australian, and New Zealand Army Corps were soldiers who fought during World War I. On April 25, 1915, the ANZACs landed on the beaches of Gallipoli in Turkey, a campaign that would last for eight months. Although the ANZACs were ultimately unsuccessful in their mission to take the peninsula, the bravery and courage they displayed in the face of overwhelming odds is an inspiration to this day.
ANZAC Day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these soldiers and of the devastating impact of war. It is a time to pay tribute to those who lost their lives and to the families left behind. It is also a time to acknowledge the ongoing struggles of veterans and their families, and offer support where possible.
From a spiritual perspective, the act of sacrificing one’s life for a just cause is seen as the ultimate act of devotion. It is a selfless act that demonstrates a deep commitment to a higher purpose and is often associated with martyrdom. In many religious traditions, sacrificing one’s life for a just cause is seen as a way to attain spiritual enlightenment or eternal salvation.
The importance of peace is a theme that runs through much of literature, from the ancient writings of Lao Tzu to the modern works of Mahatma Gandhi, Nelson Mandela, and Martin Luther King Jr. They all recognised the futility of violence and the power of peace to bring about change.
In his famous book “War and Peace,” Leo Tolstoy wrote: “We can no longer choose between war and peace; we must choose between a disastrous peace and a possible war.” These words resonate even more today, as the world faces new threats and challenges that require cooperation, not confrontation.
‘War Brings Destruction, While Peace Breeds Creation.”
The lessons of war are clear: it is a destructive force that causes immeasurable suffering and pain. The importance of peace, therefore, cannot be overstated. Peace is not simply the absence of war, but a state of harmony and cooperation between nations and individuals. It is a way of living that values compassion, empathy, and understanding.
As the Australian poet Banjo Paterson wrote in his poem “We’re All Australians Now”, “And the war, it ended less than two short years ago/And our eyes are wet, and our hearts are full, and we sob in silence yet.” Paterson’s words remind us of the ongoing impact of war, and the need to strive for peace in all aspects of our lives.
From Homer’s “The Iliad” to Ernest Hemingway’s “A Farewell to Arms”, the impact of war on individuals and society is explored in great depth. In “The Red Badge of Courage” by Stephen Crane, the protagonist struggles with the fear and uncertainty of battle, ultimately finding courage in the face of danger. These works remind us of the human cost of war and the importance of avoiding conflict whenever possible.
In conclusion, ANZAC Day is a time to remember the sacrifices made by those who fought for their country and to reflect on the lessons of war. From a spiritual perspective, the act of sacrificing one’s life for a just cause is seen as the ultimate act of devotion. The importance of peace cannot be overstated, as it is a way of living that values compassion, empathy, and understanding.
The current wars in the world are a tragic reminder of the destructive power of conflict. We must recognize that violence only begets more violence and that war is never the answer. Peace is not just a lofty ideal but a practical necessity for the survival of humanity. Let us remember that the true heroes are not those who fight wars, but those who work tirelessly for peace and understanding.
War is the ultimate failure of humanity. It tears apart families, communities, and entire nations. The true beauty of the world lies in the peace that allows us to live, love, and thrive. It is only through the pursuit of peace that we can unlock the potential for progress, cooperation, and a brighter future for all.
As we honor the ANZACs and those who have fought in wars throughout history, let us also remember the importance of striving for peace in our own lives and in the world around us.
