Tim,
Another moving event and turning point in the decline of Sparta occurred in the Peloponnesian War(s) with the capture of the Spartan hoplites on Sphacteria Island. As they languished there pending a decision on their repatriation, assimilation, exile or execution, their absence was greatly felt in their cities, and one retired Spartan warrior, by then too old to fight, remarked that "It was as though the spring had been taken from the year."
Individual courage and bravery and devotion to principle come in many forms. We prosper in diversity, and hope that those who now take aim at our institutions and infrastructure continue to learn that our diversity will help us get through this period in history.
Jerry
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