When the symbol means more than the idea
Today I read on BBC about plans to salvage the chestnut tree that gave Anne Frank (what turned out to be false) hope while she was in hiding. The tree is diseased and considered dangerous to public health, as it might fall and injure someone. When plans were announced to fell the tree, the Symbolic Is More Important than the Real Committee leapt into action. They're preparing to relocate the tree and try to save it. Why? Why?
Yes, the tree gave her hope, but is saving the tree the best way to remember and commemorate that hope? What about all of the people around the world who aren't free? Might we not better spend the time and energy that is going into this tree into supporting their causes? Plant a new tree and move onto schools for women in Afghanistan, food for people in Darfur, assistance to child-slaves in India. How can a dying tree be worth more than that?
I feel the same way over the proliferation of various museums and memorials to tragedies and horrors. Yes, it's very important to remember history, but isn't it equally important to actually work toward achieving the popular motto of "Never again"? For example the US Holocaust Memorial Museum put together a display about Darfur. That's what you do with tragedy. Don't just build a monument to it--use it for good.
The symbol should never become more important than the idea. (And I'm talking to you, spiteful, gossiping creature at the endowment office. I saw the gold cross around your neck. Is that how you think Jesus would talk about people?)
Comments
It's best to memorialize in practical ways, that's what I always say. If Anne Frank knew there were people today that care more about her tree than the gazillions slaughtered in Darfur she'd feel ashamed and sorry for them.
For example the US Holocaust Memorial Museum put together a display about Darfur. That's what you do with tragedy. Don't just build a monument to it--use it for good.
Very well put. Thank you for writing this.
You said it all in less than 300 words. I have nothing to add. Fantastic post, as always, RedZ.
Seriously! Wouldn't you like to become Prezident of the world, Redz?