Mood: special
Topic: "Dover" (4)
If, for whatever reason, someone were to distinguish the differences between Frodo and Sauron, the single most emotional point would involve respect. Had Frodo been President of the United States, presiding over a War which he had initiated, rightly or wrongly, either he, or Sam, would have met the planes at Dover, each and every one. For one who makes such decisions, the terrible cost must be imprinted, time and again, into the psyche, so that the cost of War never lessens. The sacrifice is so immense that every decision needs to be weighed to fully consider the cost to be, as well that which has already taken place. There is no compromise in Frodo's heart toward one, given responsibility, who failed to comprehend what is expected of those who lead.
It is a wise decision to respect the desires of a family as to the method by which they accept expressions of grief, solace, respect. It is the same consideration offered for the funeral service at Arlington. Although, for the past 20 years, families were denied this level of respect at Dover, it was their group decision to invite guests, including the media, to the funeral services. It is only right, in Frodo's mind, that the family be offered the same level of respect when the loved one first returns, home.
The decision to not broadcast the deeply formal and respectful ceremony at Dover was made by George H. W. Bush. His son, Sauron, failed to greet a single soldier home, at Dover. The 43rd President of the United States never attended a single military funeral during his entire term of office.
"Respect" is the word Frodo used above. Perhaps "cowardice" deserves equal consideration. Thus, dear reader, is the difference drawn.