Lest We Forget

It is Remembrance Day in Canada, a day where we honour the memory of those who lost their lives so we could have freedom. We also honour our current military on this day as well.

Every year, the following is recited at Memorial sites in just about every town and city on November 11.

“At the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month – We will remember
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:
Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.
At the going down of the sun and in the morning,
We will remember them.”

I remember all those who fought for the freedom I enjoy today. I am forever grateful. I will honour their sacrifice by treasuring my freedom and by speaking out with dignity, respect and truth for the right to speak freely of my faith, my political beliefs and for those with no voice.

Every year I honour our heroes by watching ceremonies via a broadcast from our Canadian national memorial. Schools close, and many businesses close as well, allowing people to attend services in person if they wish to do so.

One of the most powerful images from the national Remembrance Day ceremonies was on a day where the sky up above was as grey as the concrete below. Everyone attending in person was bundled up for typical November weather in Canada, but the weather worsened as the ceremony progressed.  An elderly WW2 vet who used a wheelchair sat shivering in the snow and sleet. A slightly younger vet stood behind him and used his bare hands as ‘ear muffs’ for this gentleman. Sacrifice and honour wrapped up in two men who gave their all for their country.

©2021 Katherine Walden