Well dear friends. I think it is finally safe to say that Christmas is in the air (unless you are American, you still have to wait until Thanksgiving is over suckassss). With yesterday being Remembrance Day, I am now free to start listening to Christmas music, wear Christmas sweaters and buy Christmas gifts.
And as much as I do love Christmas (I have already been way too tempted to buy the cute Starbucks tree ornaments), I was not able to fully appreciate the purpose of Remembrance Day because I had to work! I was not able to join in with the thousands of Canadians for a moment of silence, or give myself the time to reflect on what the many brave Canadians before me have done so that I may live in a country of peace. How often do I forget those who gave their lives for Canada?
And for that matter, how often do I forget my family members who served their countries? I am so thankful for them and the roles they have played in history. I have been lucky to grow up hearing stories from my grandparents about life during WWII and the parts they played. My Papa was part of the Navy and my Nana welded bombs. I could not imagine living through that time like they did. Having to carry gas masks around with them all the time, retreating to bomb shelters during the air-raids, blacking our their windows. It is a time that has shaped them and still leaves an imprint on them today. I am so thankful for everyone's contributions during that time, so that I can live today.
2 years ago I was able to go to a Concentration Camp when I was travelling around Europe. Actually standing where so much hatred and destruction had taken place, seeing all the memorials for the people whose lives had been taken really put things into perspective for me. Living in Canada, far away from conflict, has made it easy to not actually grasp all that has and is really happening in the world. Yes, we learn about these wars in school, and the key people through out those times, but I don't know if we really are able to embrace the full effect of what happened until we see it first hand. I really wish that I had been able to also see Vimy Ridge and the Canadian Memorial there. Perhaps someday.
Even though the thought of war makes me sick and breaks my heart, I thank those who have courageously given their lives, and who serve in order to protect our land. It will never be forgotten.
O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all thy sons command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
