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“Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.” ― Winston S. Churchill

For many who study history and natural phenomenon, cyclical patterns often emerge that not only explain past events, but foretell the future as well. Even as novel situations occur such as the genetic mutations of a virus such as COVID (e.g. Omicron and its variants), they are usually based on a prior basic structure or premise. Historical patterns can be seen in our current worldwide crisis and many political issues – global, regional, local – as well.

Reference to the cyclical nature of human activities is well documented. These pattens emerge almost on cue for each generation. It appears that lessons learned by every peer group must be relearned. The lure of adolescent group-think for acceptance and strict order is powerful while the chaotic nature of democratic discourse appears as disorganized and weak. Appearances can be deceiving… the opposite is actually true. However, it is difficult to see beyond the moment when confronted with immediate demands.

Misgivings about the folly of malignant and misguided repetition is evident in literature and song. A well-known folk melody, “Where Have All the Flowers Gone”, released in the 1960s by Pete Seeger and amended by Joe Hickerson, decried the cycle of violence and waste associated with war. Inspiration for the song is said to be a Ukranian Cossack folk song, Koloda-Duda whose words and cadence evoke a wistful sadness and recognition of an unrelenting, futile cycle. Rising from the ashes of past misadventures, a fresh sequence of renewal of promises to remember and avoid previous catastrophic decisions gives hope to break the patttern.

The struggle between lessons of the past and impulsive, reactive behavior of the present are constant. Societal direction often hinges on deliberate and dispassionate actions of leadership that can either respect the governed population or use them solely for personal gain. A dramatic representation of this is on full display in Ukraine while at home we face some of the same forces that seek to divide and weaken our resolve for self-determination.

It is our responsibility to recognize and break the cycle of aggression, violence and human entropy that descends to chaos. The American experiment of democracy is often identified as an outlier system that dares to challenge a chain of autocratic, despotic and authoritarian controls common in humankind. Those fleeing from dictatorial rule understand the value of our system and bring these lessons with them. However, without direct knowledge and experience, it is difficult for others to appreciate its advantages.

The foundation of our democracy is the right and responsibility to become a reasonable and informed voter. As Winston Churchill said in a speech to the House of Commons in 1944:

“At the bottom of all the tributes paid to democracy is the little man, walking into the little booth, with a little pencil, making a little cross on a little bit of paper—no amount of rhetoric or voluminous discussion can possibly diminish the overwhelming importance of that point.”

As we approach primary season for mid-term elections this year, keep comments of those embroiled in momentous and calamitous events in mind. They understand the tragic, historical cycle of their time. Honor them and their sacrifices as well as those who do so today with your voice and vote.

Where have all the flowers gone?
Where have all the young girls gone?
Where have all the husbands gone?
Where have all the soldiers gone?
Where have all the graveyards gone?

When will they ever learn?