Who among us hasn’t complained about our government or its leader, the state of health care or the school systems? Yet we live in one of the best countries in the world. And why is it one of the best? Because men, women, and boys as young as 14-16 went through two world wars to fight for our everyday freedoms; our ability to dress as we choose, travel freely within our own country and internationally, and to get an education (boys and girls), and so much more. Are some of our freedoms being challenged today – yes, but we still need to reflect on where we could have been had it not been for brave men and women that went off to fight against evil world leaders.
Does Remembrance Day glorify the idea of war? Not at all. It’s a solemn reminder of the effects of war on families, regular citizens of war-torn countries. Without being political here, look at the tragedy of the war currently in the Middle East. The biggest impact of any war is on the regular innocent citizens – including children. Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on all the sacrifices and lives lost to these battles.
Our military citizens have participated in and helped to avoid many battles, with Canada earning its place on the world stage during the two world wars as a legitimate military, then more recently the title and respect as peacekeeper. We continue to send brave brothers, fathers, sons, and daughters to support countries as they struggle to find peace. As Remembrance Day approaches, take a few minutes to be thankful for these Canadians who sacrificed so much for all the rest of us. Many didn’t make it back to their families, and those who did were changed forever.
On Remembrance Day, pause to be thankful and pray our brave military men and women currently in service return home safely.
