Karl_ wrote:I haven't worn one in quite a few years now. I avoid it because it's widely interpreted a symbol of patriotism. I think the important thing is to remember that war is horrific, and that we have a collective responsibility to avoid war and the conditions and movements that lead to war. I think that message has been undermined by the politicisation and ritualisation of the poppy as a symbol. While it seems to get worse every year, it's been like this since at least Thatcher (who led a tabloid campaign in favour of the red poppy against people who wear white poppies).
I'm theoretically happy to wear a white one, but it seems like more trouble than it's worth. I also don't mind buying a poppy (keeping it in my pocket) if I see them selling it, just to support the charity. (This year I'm unlikely to be out and about though, obviously...)
More importantly (I think anyway), around this time of year when the issue comes up, I'll inevitably spend time reflecting on how awful war is, and the drastic change of course we need if we're to avoid further devastation through war.
I do agree that the poppy does seem to have been politicised in some quarters, and it saddens me as such behaviour does take away the true meaning of wearing one which was always meant to be a simple act of remembrance.
For those who wish to experience the proper non-political side to the poppy, I would recommend (when things return to normal) a visit to the Flanders Fields Museum and Menin Gate in Ypres (along with attending the last post which takes place daily there at 8pm), i've done it a few times over the years and i have always found it highly educational, and deeply moving.
