An All-Too-Familiar Headline
When the first headlines came through on radio, television and on line Wednesday night…one could not help but feel a sense of deja vu–and with it, a sense of great concern.
The first bombs were dropped on Ukraine around 8 p.m. Iowa time Wednesday, just as dawn was breaking there. That led to ground troops spilling over the border some seven hours later. As I write this late Thursday, we have no idea of what will wind up happening. Some analysts fear a long, protected global conflict; others predict a quick coup leading to a Russian-friendly government in Ukraine and a quick end to military conflict.
Regardless, those of a certain age can’t help but think of similar images on our screens…U.S. retaliation for 9/11, the first Gulf War, etc. Each time, a sense of dread because it meant our very way of life was being threatened.
Energy costs have already skyrocketed, starting even before the invasion. The global economy, already fragile due to COVID-19, has been shaken. And the very real fear of America’s blood and treasure being spilled overshadows them all.
Add to that concerns about those in leadership positions–on both sides, frankly–and it makes it hard to go on about our normal lives.
But of course we must, as we must take pains to prepare for a situation that could quickly get out of control. These days, that means in a cyber way, as well.
If you’re so inclined, pray for wisdom and common sense. At this point, that’s all we can do, and it very well could help.
