A Drive Through A Confederate Cemetery
Sometimes I find myself driving around with Mom, seeking somewhere to go or something to do. She is 89, likes to get out of the apartment, and always up for some exploration- especially when there might be a yard sale around the next corner. So we found ourselves angling amidst the
Confederate Cemetery in Marietta, Georgia. This is distinguished from the adjacent National Cemetery which holds the remains of both Union and Confederate soldiers. Some of the locals thought it improper that the two should be mixed, and ever since, local donations have funded this hallowed and separated burial ground. As I drove along the narrow lanes I noticed the rows of nameless headstones aligned in front of markers designating the various Southern states. Thousands and thousands of men, most likely the ages of my son or even younger, died on the battlefields of Kennesaw Mountain and Kolb's Farm.
Contrary to revisionist history, I am rather sure most did not die to protect slavery. Slavery was still being practiced in the Union. And because of advances of machinery and enlightenment of culture, many historians believe it was inevitably on its way out. Anyhow, most people of the South did not own slaves- it was the admittedly brutal practice of the elite. As in most wars, those who fought were simply obeying orders, doing the bidding of the politicians. These young men were fighting and willing to die to protect their homeland and families from an invading army.
As Mom and I continued our ride along the back roads of Cobb County, sometimes I would spy a Confederate flag or other remnant of the Civil War now serving as a statement of culture. I think it would now be intended more overtly as a crass and improper message of white separatism. For instance, the Georgia state flag was changed by the legislature in the mid-fifties to resemble the Confederate flag as a message of opposition to integration. Such is improper, and serves as reason enough for me to not have anything to do with a rebel flag, even as a decoration.
Maybe Sherman had to march through the deep South, pillaging and burning and killing along the way. Perhaps it was the only way to end the war and preserve the Union? But I think that men who make war, and especially men who contemplate sending the sons and daughter of others into war, need to drive through a few ancient battlefields and consider the rows of nameless headstones.
So should the few racists who give Southern history and culture a bad name.
07.30.09 (10:51 am) [
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posted by:
barnabus1 (
reply)
post date:
07.30.09 (12:41 pm)
I think it's absolutely great that you take the time to take your mom out on drives!! We used to take our mom too, but after a short time she would want to "go back home" to the nursing home!! She wanted us to take her to Calif. but we knew she wouldn't last an hour on such a long drive!!! Funny thing, I've learned the mind will say I can, but the body says, Not with me you won't!!!
posted by:
bawdy (
reply)
post date:
07.30.09 (12:50 pm)
I am fortunate to have grown up in a period of relative peace, therefore never having to serve my country in a war. It is sad that so many have died so young in wars over the years, and they have my utmost respect.
posted by:
Ladyg (
reply)
post date:
07.30.09 (4:22 pm)
Great post PD, perhaps if they drive through it might change some minds hopefully.
posted by:
rosietulips (
reply)
post date:
07.31.09 (9:18 am)
That reminds me...how are things going with your mom's boyfriend?!
posted by:
PastorDave (
reply)
post date:
07.31.09 (9:47 am)
Reply to: barnabus1
Most people, as they get older, want to stay closer to home. My mom never wants to come to my house because it is so far away and the trip gets her out of her routine- and I live less than an hour away! Parents are a whole lot like children in that we just have to love em' like they are, not as we would like for them to be.
posted by:
PastorDave (
reply)
post date:
07.31.09 (9:50 am)
Reply to: bawdy
Mine too. So many of these older people that I see stumbling around in nursing homes and driving too slow in the car in front are those who one time served in the military. It is notable that many do not much want to talk about the horrors of war. They did a great thing for us.
posted by:
PastorDave (
reply)
post date:
07.31.09 (9:50 am)
Reply to: Ladyg
As I get older I become more pacifist.
posted by:
PastorDave (
reply)
post date:
07.31.09 (9:52 am)
Reply to: rosietulips
My mom's boyfriend? He was forced to leave the care facility for a number of reasons, and I think foremost being a problem with alcohol. Anyhow, as I now understand, he is engaged to marry another lady. Thank God it is not my mom!
