Twenty years ago today, the biggest symbol of communism and oppression - the Berlin Wall - was being dismantled. Those of us who watched it happen on our televisions will never forget the images of joy and hope. I would have loved to have been there to share in that euphoric moment.
I have visited Eastern Germany many times over the last few years and the change has been breathtaking. People no longer have to worry their friends and neighbours may be spying on them for the Stasi. Gone are the ruins from the Second World War. Gone is the despair of having your life completely run by the state.
Tonight is a night for celebration. A new generation has grown up not experiencing first hand the horrors of communism. If you have no other reason to celebrate today, celebrate that.
2 comments:
I just can't believe it was 20 years ago, it seems like yesterday to me...
I exactly remember the 9th November 20 years ago. I was watching TV here in Vancouver and couldn't believe that something like that was really happening. The atmosphere was amazing and I think I had never seen so much optimism, joy and hope. I was just afraid that army could interfere like it was in Czechoslovakia in 1968 but fortunately nothing like that happen. It was great day for millions of people.
Best regards,
Jay
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