As I age, I find myself reflecting on the past.
This reflection is based on true history, not the narratives crafted by those just beginning their journey in academia.
In my youth, I had the privilege of conversing with my Grandad, who shared with me his firsthand experiences from the First World War. He recounted not from textbooks, but from the vivid sights and sounds he encountered. He described the trenches where he battled constant dampness and cold, the chilling echoes of German machine guns, and the various names assigned to the shells that soared overhead. “Whizbangs” was what he called it, emphasizing the clear understanding of a shell passing by before it detonated.
The Irish were far from passive observers during this conflict. My Grandad expressed that he found comfort in the presence of the Royal Irish Rangers on his right flank and regarded the Diggers on his left as the bravest soldiers he had witnessed in combat.
I experienced the Second World War as well, during a time when the streets of London were once again bustling with soldiers from different colonies. This time, both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland contributed their heroes to the cause of saving the world, consistently supported by the formidable Diggers.
While history provides details about battles, combatants, and leadership, only those who participated in these events can truly convey the emotional weight of those experiences.
For nearly six years, bombs and rockets rained down. The vivid sensations of tastes, smells, and the sounds of explosions remain etched in my memory. As a house crumbled, coal dust would fill your lungs—the norm back then was coal fires, as central heating did not exist. Sirens became so frequent that they were often disregarded.
I was struck by the Japanese, who compelled their citizens to commit Hari Kari or undertake kamikaze missions, essentially transforming people into weapons for their beliefs… were they perhaps the original suicide bombers?
The atrocities committed by the Germans against millions of Jews stand stark, but it was ultimately the Allies’ resolve to prevail that led to Germany’s defeat. The Jews, witnessing the Allies’ determination, learned to fight back.
Post-war, the Jews established the state of Israel, portrayed in USA cinema such as Exodus as a triumph of faith and hope. However, the reality involved violence against those who had fought against Germany. Thus, terrorism was used as a strategy to create a new state. Who would draw lessons from this?
In Africa and Asia, attempts to seize power often involved terrorism. Yet, 
it was in Ireland where the IRA became adept in the art of using guns and bombs. The transition seemed natural for others, including Muslims, to realize that religion could serve as a tool of war.
From sectarian divides involving Catholics, Protestants, Jews, and Muslims to conflicts among Irish and within Islamic communities such as Sunni versus Shiite.
What insights does history provide us?
A greater number of Irish people resided in the UK than in Ireland itself. They contributed financially and supported the broader cause, yet they were not involved in violence or bombings.
In contemporary Australia, a significant Muslim population exists, similarly believing in the cause, though rejecting violence.
After the tragic events of 9/11, the USA chose to address terrorism by invading Iraq and Afghanistan. Imagine if the UK had opted to obliterate Israel or bomb Dublin—would such actions have led to the defeat of terrorism?
History is defined by our lived experiences—what we personally observe and remember.
It’s essential to overlook narratives penned by authors influenced by their national contexts and the views of so-called intellectuals.
Engage your senses: feel the earth beneath your feet, breathe in the surroundings, and listen to the sounds that define today.
Violence breeds further violence; instead, communication—especially from those with lived experience—represents a far superior approach.
Why do we allow wisdom to go unappreciated in youth?
True happiness lies in embracing life and, of course… teasing the Poms.
by TOG
