I had a chat with Major General Tim Cross (retired) the other day, I have never spoken to a general before, though I have had a curry with a brigadier.
Anyway, he has a really interesting take on our society today based on his experiences in the Army. To paraphrase his argument
The British Army believes that an important part of their fighting effectiveness is the Moral Component; which is all about the ability to get soldiers to fight, and if necessary to die for the cause. At the heart of Fighting Power is the ‘Will to Fight’; the determination to succeed against all the odds.
What is it that gets a soldier out on a patrol in Afghanistan each morning, knowing that there is a fair to middling chance that he will be injured or killed? The answer to that question lies in words like character and moral courage; friendship and love; honour and integrity; a sense of duty, trust and commitment.
The point he then goes onto argue is that it’s the same with our society. Focusing solely on the economy or ASBO’s or law enforcement etc. are not enough to build a great nation. For that we need our Society and our Communities to be built on a solid Moral Component. Unfortunately over the last 30 or so years we have abandoned our Biblical Morality and our Christian heritage and replaced it with …..nothing.
So why are we then so surprised/frightened/angry that we now have a generation of youngsters who have no sense of a Moral Component in their own lives, or see it in the leadership of the Nation? Recent events - including the scandals in the City, Parliament and the Media along with the recent rioting seem to underscore this point And what are we going to do about it?!
I think it’s a really interesting point of view and whether you agree that Christianity is the solution or not, it’s an important area of public life to wrestle with.
So we have invited him to come and speak at our next Woking Business Matters lunch and if you would like to come along you would be very welcome
Venue: The Beijing Restaurant, 95-99 High Street Horsell GU21 4SY
Date: Tuesday 8th November 12.40 for 1.00pm, till 1.50, but it is a case of come when you can and go when you must.
Costs: No charge, but we invite a contribution of £10/head to cover costs. Lunch provided.
Booking: To help us get the catering right, please book either by phone me on 07795 973814 or email me at martin@peoplecentred.co.uk
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Costs: No charge, but we invite a contribution of £10/head to cover costs. Lunch provided.
Booking: To help us get the catering right, please book either by phone me on 07795 973814 or email me at martin@peoplecentred.co.uk
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