Growing up, I was obsessed with joining the military. The moment I became old enough, I went straight to the Army barracks to get my recruitment form. When I got home and showed my mum, she said nothing. She just started crying and begged me not to join. I listened. Today, watching politicians gamble with young people’s lives and send them to die in wars that serve their selfish interests, I understand those tears. I’m glad I listened to my mother.