JANUARY 6, 2022
I grew up with certain dates swirling about in my mind. I always had an affinity for history. For whatever reasons, certain dates stuck with me. Today, January 6th, for example was the Epiphany; a significant date for Eastern Christians. It was duly noted in our prayer book. US historic dates for me included June 6, 1944…D-Day a good start towards the end of you know who; Flag Day on June 14th (Need I mention the Wisconsin connection?); July 4, 1776 of course; July 20,1969 actually viewing the landing on the moon; August 6, 1945 as the horrific day of Hiroshima; September 11, 2001; September 17 (No not as the day after someone important’s birthday)….rather in 1787 when the US Constitution was adopted; November 22, 1963 when we lost JFK; and of course December 7, 1941 as the Day of Infamy.
Although not specific to America the year of 1215 was of great eventual impact in our country, Magna Carta. In a way it started us on the path to liberty.
We all have had dates that are imprinted in our memory. You will also. I don’t know what yours will be but it will not be the dates alone that stick. It will be the significance of what happened on the date. As I write this, some forces want today’s date to always mark what is described as the insurrection of 2021. Some claim 1/6/2021 was as significant as earlier historic events; such as 9/11 or Pearl Harbor. True or political hyperbole? As I always say, use your own noggin. America has a long history of violent protests and riots. There are plenty of facts for you to sort through of what was or was not an actual rebellion.
Papa believes that the Civil War was our greatest insurrection. I do recognize that some may argue for Shay’s Rebellion (1786-7) because of its impact on adopting the US Constitution. (Which I also include because its last battle happened near Nana’s hometown.)