I do like to remind people of the 'Terminator of Pleasures', as it would seem to also put most of the problems of life into perspective. But most people don't want to hear about it too often, so I have to bring him into conversations sparingly. So one of the good points of war as far as I'm concerned, is that it's everyday horrors show the Terminator nightly on our TV screens, and I don't have to describe him, just point out how enjoyable our lives can be when we live in remembrance of the pleasure of his absence. 

At times like this, no matter what other stories are in the news, there’s never any doubt about the main issue being dealt with. We are at war, and no matter how superior our forces and remote-controlled our weaponry, some of our sons and daughters will probably die. Right now, those who are doing our fighting for us are putting their lives on the line.

But when you listen to those who have fought in other wars, their experience was clearly much more than just fear and physical discomfort. In war everyday aspects of life seem to take on an added vibrancy. Life itself means more and matters more. As suggested by those who pursue extreme sports, danger brings with it a heightened life experience.

In the world of Islam, the link between war and life is even in the language. The word ‘Jihad’, usually translated as ‘Holy War’, really means something closer to ‘Struggle’, and as such doesn’t just apply in times of fighting, but defines an attitude to everyday life. On the journey home from one war, Muhammad said “We are now returning from the Lesser Struggle to the Greater”.

The main issues that confront us unavoidably in war, that heighten our life experience, are actually with us all the time. What do we consider more important than mere survival? What gives our lives meaning and purpose? What is inside us that will enable us to face death with equanimity?

Ibn Umar used to say “Retire at night in the expectation that you may not see the morning, and live each day as though you may not see the night”.

After all, we each of us face death every day - if more likely from a speeding car than a speeding bullet. A clot of blood, a failing heart, or a microbe invading our system will all do the trick, but rather than constantly look death in the eye, most people prefer to search out some distraction. And so, with death and life so intertwined, they turn away from what gives life real meaning.

Muhammad, the most laughing and smiling of men, said “Remember often the Terminator of Pleasures”.