The Forums of Glennain

HIS MAJESTY ALEXANDER
GAGARIN ROYAL OFFICE
HANOVER

The Royal Family has decided to add this rare historical document to the Royal Gazette to help insure its ready access by all, and its continued existance.

The source can be found here:
http://www.geocities.com/houseofmarchmain/address.html

Regards,
HM Alexander of All Hanover

Quote:My Beloved People:

Earlier tonight, the long expected military action led by the United States of America against the regime of Saddam Hussein commenced outside of Baghdad, Iraq. This is, no doubt, the beginning of a long and arduous effort on the part of the American-led coalition to, at last, remove from power a dictator whose name is synonymous with brutality and terror, and to restore to the people of Iraq a government which they can truly call their own.

For many of you, especially those of you who are younger, the outbreak of war may be a cause of anxiety and worry. It is no happy circumstance to awaken to a wartime era, especially for those who have never in their lifetimes  experienced something so dreadful. Many of you may begin to have fears about your future hopes and dreams, wondering if a changed world will forever alter your plans and dash your hopes.

Perhaps those of us who have known wartime can bring some comfort and reassurance to our younger citizens who have known only times of peace and prosperity. Those of us who have lived through war know that, even in the face of the fighting and tragedy, life goes on and that even the most terrible conflicts eventually pass away. Peace and prosperity return soon enough because of man's enduring innate longing for harmony with his fellow human beings. Deep within the heart of every inhabitant of the Earth lies a profound need for peace and fellowship with his neighbors.

It is my personal belief that the people of Iraq will, in the long run, benefit from the events which began some few hours ago. If the coalition forces are successful in their objectives, an oppressive and dictatorial regime will be finally toppled, replaced by a new and democratic government. The people of Iraq will at last be free. They will be free to determine their own destiny. They will be free to live their lives in peace, no longer having to suffer the harsh and inhuman programme of a harsh and inhuman government. They will begin to enjoy the freedoms and privileges which so many of us take for granted.

Many of my subjects will be close to persons, young men and women, who, because of their military duties, will be sent to participate in the operations taking place in Iraq. Some of you may even have family members who will be called to serve. This is, of course, a particularly difficult and trying time for those who have friends and loved ones in the military. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones. This is truly a moment when all Hanoverians must generously extend the hand of friendship and comfort to any of their fellow citizens who are personally affected by the outbreak of war.

Whatever our opinions and convictions regarding the conflict, we must always remember that there is a deeply personal side to war for many people with whom we will come into contact. Last week, several friends and I were served at table by a young waiter who informed us that he was a member of the United States National Guard.This bright young man full of laughter, hope and promise anxiously monitors events, wondering if he will be forced to put his plans and dreams on hold to serve his country half a world away. The King of Hanover hopes and prays that, if he is sent overseas, he will return home safely and soundly to realize his dreams.

Times such as these remind us that the world can be a harsh and brutal place. News footage of missiles exploding over Baghdad and the casualties which result will further cause us to look at life in a dark and pessimistic way. We will lament, justly, that we have not yet learned to love one another as brothers and sisters in this world. We will be angry at those who cannot simply agree to disagree with one another in peace.

In the face of the bleakness of the moment, however, we must be mindful of the fact that the world is also a beautiful place full of wonders and delights. Despite conflict and tragedy, hope survives. It is important to remember and to acknowledge the good and beautiful people, places and things in this world and to take comfort in them. In the end, good always triumphs over evil. In the end, joy always triumphs over sorrow. In the end, peace always triumphs over war. The good things of this world were made to last. Let us continue to be inspired by the good souls, the good thoughts, the good dreams and the good acts which bring the world away from destruction and back to renewal.

With hearts full of hope for the day, never far away, when peace shall be restored, we commend our nation, our family and our friends around the world to the loving care of the living God. May God bless all of you now and forever. May God bless the Kingdom of Hanover.



James R

<center>
JAMES
By the Grace of God of Hanover and of His Other Realms and Territories King,
Emperor of Calormen, Head of the Commonwealth</center>