By Nancy Virden (c)2023

In 1937 Romania, a growing anti-semitism was being propagated by Nazi sympathizers. It was simple, without Google and social media, false claims about Jewish people were shouted from town squares, hung on posters, and spouted in movie ads and television. Propaganda was powerful, just as it is today, and served to stir up hate and racism countrywide.

By 1940 Romania was full-blown Nazi territory. Jews were being removed from their homes and businesses and taken to concentration camps where many died. Others were murdered execution-style after mock trials for treason. Many who could have helped refused to be involved, allowing tens of thousands to suffer needlessly.

All it took was some concentrated propaganda to turn a nation against its own citizens.

Veterans who died in American wars are honored today for their sacrifice of life. It is noble to stand up for and die to save others from oppression and murder. We must honor the memories of these men and women.

Let us also remember that the world is full of propaganda. In honor of those who died to protect lives and freedoms, let us not become foolish believers in everything we hear. We live in an age where fact-checking is relatively easy and convenient. Let’s put our fingertips to work and take the time to know what was said and what actually happened before we throw away our or someone else’s freedoms by spreading false accusations based on stigma, racism, bias, fear, jealousy, or hearsay.

Have a blessed Memorial Day.

-COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

Proverbs 19:27-28

If you stop listening to instruction, my child, you will turn your back on knowledge. A corrupt witness makes a mockery of justice; the mouth of the wicked gulps down evil.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair. NOTE: Nancy is not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speaks only from personal experience and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

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