Abandoning the Cause

I as well as a few family members and friends enjoy a book called "The American Patriot's Almanac" by William J Bennett and John T.E. Cribb.

A few days ago there was an entry that just got me thinking a lot. April 29th was the day that the U.S. Forces withdrew from Vietnam and also war torn Cambodia. The leader of the Cambodian people that the U.S. forces support was named Prince Sirik Matak. He said to the U.S. Forces in a letter:

"Thank you very sincerely for your letter and your offer to transport me toward freedom. I cannot, alas, leave in such a cowardly fashion. As for you, and in particular for your great country, I never believe for a moment that you would have this sentiment of abandoning a people which has chosen liberty. You have refused us your protection, and we can do nothing about it. You leave, and my wish is that you and your country will find happiness under the sky. But, mark it well, that I shall die here on the spot and in my country that I love, it is no matter, because we are all born and must die. I have only committed this mistake of believing in you."

He was shot by the communists forces that came into take over the country and shot Prince Matak. He got not treatment or care and suffered 3 days before he died. Our great country started with the passions of those patriots who spoke similar statements. "Give me liberty or give me death".

Sometimes I feel that things like this are sold out for the easier way, or a more convenient path by people and politicians alike. Let us keep these kinds of believes and values in our hearts and make them apart of us! We will all be better for it.