Lockdown 31/47 – Remembering the Fallen
Day 31 of my diary of a LOTR Fan Museum owner during our national lockdown (extended from 28 to 47 days: 33 at level 4, 14 at L3) – in NZ we’re uniting as a country to beat Covid-19 to break the chain and save lives, but …
A sombre turn today for the new job of STAY HOME, be kind. Like most NZrs and Australians, we were at home in our bubbles for the dawn service to commemorate lives lost in battle for ANZAC Day.
ANZAC Day on 25 April is the anniversary of the Gallipoll landing in WWI by NZ/Australian troops (Australia and New Zealand Army Corps – ANZAC). In the last 10-20 years there has been a huge resurgence in commemoration of the day, including by many young people. Perhaps we find it a more unifying public day than our national day, Waitangi Day, which celebrates but also examines our country’s foundations.
While WWI ended over 100 years ago, it was a seminal influence on JRR Tolkien. I feel sure his experiences permeated his writing in LOTR, providing wisdom that still helps us today in this time of world crisis.
There are normally ANZAC dawn services throughout NZ as well as services at other times. Covid-19 lockdown means we can’t hold these services today, so instead people were invited to commemorate at dawn at their own gates, balconies, yards etc.
This year’s commemoration is also particularly poignant given the losses to Covid-19. Observing a sombre national ritual of commemoration gives us all the chance to express our sadness for those who have died in the current crisis as well as in past conflicts. And, also the chance to honour those who have given and still give their service for their country.
It was a privilege to stand on the street this morning to pay our respects.
Respect to the fallen and their families in NZ and Australia, and all those overseas where the death tolls are staggeringly high. Respects also to those serving their country in essential work. And finally, we salute all of us who are staying true to the lockdown. Best wishes, Kathy xx
