Freedom of Choice and the Power of Principles

Last weekend, my wife and I stumbled upon a long military convoy while shopping in the city center of our hometown. The whole street was filled from start to end with all kinds of army vehicles from the Second World War: motorbikes, jeeps, trucks, amphibious vehicles, and even a tank. Every driver and crew member wore a uniform, making it look even more realistic. We quickly learned that all these vehicles and folks were part of a big parade commemorating the liberation of 's-Hertogenbosch 80 years ago.

I've read a lot about the Second World War, and the magnitude of this event, with all its tragedy and loss that impacted so many people around the globe, always impresses me. It makes me feel humble and deeply grateful that strangers have risked and sacrificed their lives so we can live in freedom.

It sparks questions about what I would have done myself if I were alive then.

Would I...

...go abroad to fight in a foreign land far away from home?

...risk my life for strangers who I don't understand?

...kill other people in a different uniform?

...join the resistance when my country is occupied?

...hide people who are trying to escape oppression?

...collaborate with the oppressor?

...undertake anything?

...or just sit it out, minding my own business?

I find these questions even more profound because I'm a conscientious objector. In my twenties, military service was still compulsory in the Netherlands. Luckily, I got time during my studies to give this some thought and talk to friends about it.

For me, it became clear that violence was never a solution to resolve a conflict. I never wanted to be in a position where I could be told to kill somebody just because somebody else believed that to be right. So, I applied for an exemption based on these personal principles and carried out an alternative civilian service.

Thirty-three years later, I still hold tight to these principles because I find them extremely valuable. But I also realize there is a luxury in making these conscious choices when you live in a safe place. The only way to find out how strong my principles are is when things change for the worse, and I find myself in the horrible scenario when the questions above become painfully relevant. In that case, I will face my choices, hoping to be strong enough to live up to my principles.

How about you? Do you wonder about this too? What would you do?

Take care and till next time!

Kind regards,

Herman / Scrumpy Dad

I help people stay loyal to their goals and values and create more happiness for themselves and their loved ones. ??

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