Ogden Nash puts it something like this--my memory is not perfect and I haven't been able to find the exact quote or citation:
Men can't concentrate on blowing each other up if their minds are poisoned with thoughts of Christmas.
I think that is correct.
In a world of war, conflict, and exploding hatred, thoughts of the arrival of Jesus completely reframe everything, every reality, every plan and every dream.
We would do very well to rest in thoughts informed by the narrative of Advent and Christmas.
It wouldn't hurt us, it would do no harm to let those images and ideas linger on deep into spring.
3 comments:
On a related note, this headline...
"U.S. Iraq War Toll Passes That of 9/11...A Grim Milestone: U.S. Military Death Toll Exceeds the 2,973 People Killed in 9/11 Attacks"
Article posted here.
The sentiment is quite thought-provoking...
You got close. This version looks like it has a legitimate reference:
"People can't concentrate properly on blowing other people to pieces properly if their minds are poisoned by thoughts suitable to the twenty-fifth of December."
Ogden Nash, 'Merry Christmas, Nearly Everybody!', I'm a Stranger Here Myself, 1938
Randy Mayeux, Dallas
Thanks, Randy! I can always count on you for great research, among other things! Happy New Year!
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