I recently watched "Paths of Glory" a 1957 Stanley
Kubrick film considered a classic anti-war polemic. This loaded moniker however
is unfortunately given as it is in fact not a film against war but instead a
film against the self-centered egoism often displayed by humanity in various
ways--this time from the intense and ultimate experience of death that is war.
Jesus at one time said "Greater
love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends."
War, because it involves the most serious and intense experience of death,
provides the opportunity for this very greatest love. It also provides
opportunity for one of the classic and deadly of sins--pride.
As is often the case the real questions
are this--where is your heart ? what are your motivations ? For example, many
instances of genuine bravery during war for the right reasons are known. Also
instances of war and death simply for the pride of vain men on their "path
to glory" are also known.
An ancient example from history is this:
King David of Israel, due to his own lust, instructed his general to engage in
a battle that would create a murderous scenario. Engage and then withdraw
leaving a certain loyal soldier to be killed. This soldier (Uriah) had found
himself unfortunately caught in a web of lust, power and pride.
Where is our heart ?
Are we seeking something out of our love
and concern for another?
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