The Young Pay Tribute, Too

Today is Remembrance Day in Canada and Armistice Day in the United States, both countries honouring the Veterans of the first world “war to end all wars”, which culminated at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month. This day is honoured by more than just the two countries mentioned, as “World” War One had an impact as it implies – throughout the whole world. We honour all Veterans and their families, as both sacrifice in times of war.

One does not need to have gone through the war to honour Veterans of that war – or to honour Veterans period. The younger generation may not have seen a world war, nor have we seen what war can do outside of movies and books. I am talking about those of us outside of the Military and those of us born and raised in these countries we are blessed to be a part of. We may think the glimpse that Hollywood gives us into wars and battles give us some idea of what a soldier – or a soldier’s family – has gone through, but we would be wrong. Unless you have gone through similar experiences these soldiers have experienced, seen what the soldiers have seen, you cannot understand the horror and the tragedy that a war brings. It is something that stays with these men and women for the rest of their lives, no matter how hard they may want to forget. And it changes them, no matter how hard they wish it didn’t.

So, today especially, give a hug to grandparents, parents, children and relatives who have served and are serving. Let them know their sacrifice was – nor is – NOT in vain; that you feel eternally blessed to be living in the country you are in. Go up to a Veteran, whether related to you or not, and say “Thank You”. Let them know they matter. And let Veterans everywhere know THEY MATTER! Not just today, but they matter EVERY. DAY. Don’t just voice this today. If you encounter a Veteran in your daily living, go up to them and thank them for their service. Tell them that even though you have not served and sacrificed as they did; that even though you may be young and non-military, you thank them despite the not knowing – really KNOWING – what it is they sacrificed so that you can live in a country free of wars, free of battles, free of dictators and tyrants . . . FREE!

Until next time,
Inge