On September 1, 1939, following the German invasion of Poland, both England and France declared war on the Hitler government. From September 1939 to May 1940, there were few major battles, and the period became known as the Sitzkrieg or “sitting war.” Similarly, in the United States, we find ourselves in a metaphorical “sitzkrieg” amidst our political, religious, and cultural conflicts. While January 6, 2021, might be considered a minor skirmish, it could be a precursor to more significant events. Former President Trump has hinted at potential chaos if not re-elected, suggesting a looming “bloodbath.” Comments like that are like lighting a match in a gas filled room.
I would prefer to read about the current political and cultural discord in the U.S. from a future vantage point, rather than experiencing it firsthand. It’s plausible that future generations will perceive this era as a “Dark Age” in American history.
The collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge in Baltimore, struck by a cargo ship yesterday morning, serves as a poignant metaphor. Just as the bridge crumbled into the river, so too may our democracy face deterioration in the wake of collisions spurred by divisive ideologies.
Esot-eric 