I have dearly wanted to visit the Rivers of Blood exhibition depicting poppies, surrounding the Tower of London. Each poppy represents one soldier's death in the 14-18 Great War. But, two things about this exhibition disturb me.
The first is how this outpouring of National grief and sentiment for the soldiers who died - which I feel is 100 years too late. How many soldiers returned from that Great War to End All Wars - disabled in one way or another - and were ignored? Left to try to scrape a living somehow, many had to resort of selling matches on the streets - or worse still - begging.
The widows of deceased soldiers were similarly left to try to support their children and themselves, best as they could. Sadly, many had to resort to prostitution. Not something for this Nation to be proud of, is it? I know the Nation was shell-shocked then, and money was scarce. Thankfully, we seem to be more appreciative of our soldiers today - albeit we rely heavily on Charity for this.
Never mind - the sale of the poppies at £25 each to raise funds for today's needy soldiers sounded a good idea, and I almost parted with twenty-five readies for this cause. Then I learned that less than 50% was going to go to the two charities purported to be being supported: the Royal British Legion and Help for Heroes. About 20% went to offset expenses - and the rest? A big secret. Apparently, some fat-cat in Switzeland has made millions - but YOU try to find out more?
I am donating £12.50 to each of the charities instead of buying a ceramic poppy! At least then I'll know the full amount goes to the right recipients.
The display was impressive, and although the crowds were unbelievable - I did manage a quick grab shot or two with the little Canon G10.
A shame about the brollies and the bland, white skies! Weather was grim - but nonetheless, a very sombre and impressive display.
On until Armistice Day - 11th November 2014
