“Patriotism is the last resort of a villain”, Samuel Johnson

I never thought I’d tackle this subject in Degardener and still have some doubts about infusing politics into what is supposed to be a blog of totally different mindset. These days, however, I simply can’t avoid it.

I grew up on the left side of the political spectrum. As a teenager I used to play John Lennon on my guitar and wear a big peace sign earring. I grew my hair and considered myself a flower child, even though I clearly wasn’t. I voted for the first time in 1992 and for the first 10 years could consider nothing but left side choices. Like many people, I started drifting towards the middle as I reached my 30th birthday. But what happened since was nothing I could expect.

I always thought it was all about freedom and economics. Immanuel Kant suggested that the free to choose (hence: democracies) do not go to war. Growing up in Israel I always believed that once we level the plain field, meaning once we withdraw from Palestinian territories and reach a democratic, Palestinian state the conflict would be over. After all, who wants to jeopardize comfort and freedom? Who can argue against occupation leading to war?

The war in Lebanon, as well as the recent turn of events in Gaza is just another evidence that I had it totally wrong. This war is not between Israel and Lebanon and it is not between Israel and the Hezbollah. This war is about religion and fundamentalism and not about territories, self proclaiming or equal opportunities. It is not even about occupation. Occupation is wrong, but in many ways is the inevitable result. Yes, Shiite Lebanese are victims as are Palestinians, however not of external colonialism but of Darwinism. In very simple terms they are simply jealous and sick of lagging so far behind. It’s impossible to compete with western civilization without democracy, westernized education, cultural assimilation and acceptance of individualism. Is there decadence involved? sure. But let’s all take a look at Nassralla (smart, educated and charismatic) and see ourselves what the alternative is.

While Hammas and Hezbollah robbed me of my innocence I do have to thank them. I remember now what the hassle of keeping Israel safe at all cost is about. No, I don’t believe peace will be reached in our days, not anymore. I don’t believe the fundamental Muslims are interested in reaching independence or Peace to begin with. Yes, I am not as sensitive to the pain of the other side as I used to be because the “other side” has to make a different choice first.  World War III has already started (even if the French are still in denial). Israel is not just the Jewish state, it is the middle-eastern front of western civilization. Of Life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Of Freedom, Equality and Brotherhood. I know we do lots of wrongs, but at least I am reassured that we are on the right side.

And of that, I am a patriot.