[/caption]Bob Ewing - This week I am setting aside my regular discussion about permaculture, and how it is possible to lessen your impact upon the Earth.
The 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month is when Canadians across the country stop what they are doing, and take a minute to honour, and respect all those who have served and are serving their country.
On November 11th at 11 a.m., we honour those who gave their lives, in defense of democracy, liberty and country, for example, in the first and second world wars, the Korean War, in Afghanistan and we honour those who continue to serve today.
The poppy plays a major role in our remembrance; wearing one pays respect to the men and women who put and continue to put themselves into danger in order to serve their country. They deserve much more than this singular moment but that we gather in community centres, around memorials and other sites, in municipalities across the country is important. We cannot forget the sacrifices they made and continue to make.
I was a peace activist for many years, and still believe peace is possible, but world events make it very difficult to maintain this perspective.
I opposed the war in Vietnam, the incursions into Iraq and Afghanistan, for example, but always wore a poppy and have always honoured those who served whether it was by choice or selection, they put themselves into the field of fire and far too many never made it home.
I wear a poppy to honour and remember my parents. Both Mom and Dad served in World War 2. Mom was in the Air Force and stationed in Winnipeg Manitoba. Dad was in the Royal Regiment and served in Iceland and England. He contracted bronchitis when he came home during the time he was billeted, in cold and drafty conditions, prior to his discharge.
Our country often pays lip service to the armed forces, but there are far too many examples of how our veterans are not getting a fair deal.
I wear a poppy with pride, humility and respect. At my father’s funeral, the members of the local Royal Canadian Legion marched in and as they approached his coffin, removed their poppies and laid them on his chest. I wear a poppy to honour and remember them.
Lest We Forget is a powerful statement, if we truly seek to end war, we must never forget the sacrifices so many have made, and continue to make. I wear a poppy.