We won the battles of May, but can we win the wars challenging our independent nation?
May is considered “victory month” for Armenians, because on the 28th day of that month in 1918 we pushed back the Turkish army on three fronts.
Seventy-four years later, on May 9th, Armenians liberated the strategically important city of Shushi. Both wars — during which men and women of all ages and social classes contributed their efforts — united the nation.
We have every reason to be proud of these history-shaping victories, and look forward to more in the future. The historic victories of May were attained thanks to strategic thinking, courageous citizens who were willing to trade their lives for the freedom of the nation. Before overcoming the enemy, these brave men and women had already defeated their internal enemies, such as fear and selfishness that could have prevented them from facing the extreme challenges of warfare.
Today, we have another “Shushi” to conquer, yet another enemy to push back. Armenians around the globe want to conquer the mountainous feat of transforming Armenia into a modern, and secure industrialized nation. A country whose friends are envious and whose enemies dare not challenge it on the battlefield. A nation where unemployment and poverty is confined to history books, and whose corruption is confined to the memories of the old generation.
Although this is not a military challenge, its victory prerequisites are no different. Much the same as previous May military campaigns that we had won, this 21st century challenge calls for courageous and dedicated men and women of character and integrity.
Before overcoming the external enemy of poverty and injustice, each of us first needs to overcome the enemy within. Reflecting on his internal struggles, the Apostle Paul writes “Although I want to do good, evil is right there with me” (Romans 7:21). Paul acknowledges that his worst enemy resides inside of him.
In order to reach our full potential, each of us needs to overcome internal enemies such as fear and self-doubt. Powerful empires have collapsed from within due to the vices of inflated egos, dishonesty, selfishness, and greed that have plagued citizens.
The book of Proverbs reflects on this: “Better a patient person than a warrior, one with self-control than one who takes a city” (Prov. 16:32). A person who overcomes his/her internal enemies can certainly conquer any challenge that life throws at him/her. To overcome our nation’s challenges of achieving prosperity and acquiring justice for all citizens, we need political leaders who are committed to internationally recognized democratic values. Yet, the potential of such leadership can be unleashed only by a citizenry of individuals who have already overcome their internal enemies.
Puzzled and disturbed by his internal struggles, the Apostle Paul states, “What a wretched man I am! Who will rescue me from this body that is subject to death?” He finds comfort in God’s promises and concludes, “Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!”
Let’s honor the memories of our war heroes, to whom we owe the freedoms we now cherish, by building a nation of prosperity and justice founded on the Christian principles passed down to us by our forefathers. Let’s turn to Jesus Christ and seek his assistance to overcome the evil that has been plaguing humanity since the beginning.
Harout Nercessian
AMAA Armenia Representative
