Remember Me

I love Rememberance Day. I love to see people wear poppies and know what it represents.

It used to be just another day, with a short trip to the cenetaph and a quick ceremony remembering the fallen. But understanding who the fallen are and what they gave for us and why makes this day much more.

I can't imagine what it must have taken for those young soldiers to get off that boat and creep onto a beach that very well could be that last sight they see. I can't fathom the courage it must have taken to crawl through a tunnel, hearing and feeling the vibrations of shells and bombs all around them, not knowing if that second will be their last breath. Those on the front lines must have endured a plethera of emotions; relief that buddies made it alive and likewise incredible grief at not only finding a commrade fallen but the very scenes around them, the macabre that invaded their every senses. It is no wonder that so many veterans wish to leave the battlefield in the past and not share their experiences. What is so incredible to me is that they went. They fought. They gave life and limb for freedom that we enjoy today without a second thought.

I am very patriotic; I love Canada and the freedoms we enjoy. When I read stories of the great wars or watch documentaries on those and other conflicts, I am filled with pride and love for our soldiers. The brave ones who fought. The strong ones who gave so much not only for themselves and their families, but for the generations ahead. The love, selflessness, courage, strength and very attitude of those souls should never be forgotten. I am so thankful for that great sacrifice.

Now, so much more than the school years past, the words "Lest We Forget" are hitting home for me.