Remember

Yesterday was Remembrance Day here (was called Armistice Day at one time long past).  For some reason even this day can be controversial.  There are some who argue that the day is to remember those who lost their lives, others who claim that it is a day to honor those who served.  Even some who argue (quite convincingly though I disagree) that it should be a general holiday...

My thoughts?

I served so folks could do what they wished.  In school it should be a day of remembrance, an opportunity to teach a little bit of history, like any other important day in our nations history.  Not 'pro' or 'anti' war, just a recollection of men (though primarily, there were also women) who stepped up (some forced, remember conscription, but they didn't run to Canada) and served. 

There is a saying which I do agree with to some degree: "Some gave a little, some gave all".

Anyone who signed up, was conscripted, or just ended up in the wrong place at the wrong time served.

Hence: Remembrance Day.  The soldiers, sailors, airmen that we never knew, who died in horrifying conditions, in mud, water or night skies.  The man that marched towards 'ground center' during nuclear tests who died from some unexpected cancer decades later.  The person who stood guard over some none de-script location, day after day, for months.

The person who trained and then spent years viewing a screen, watching for a threat that (praise God) never materialized.  The soldier who trained hard, missed birthdays, girlfriends, opportunities, family gatherings but never left Canada.The hockey coach, scout leader, swim coach who spent hours and days helping some young person achieve something, anything.

The (primarily) women who kept the family running at home, fearing a knock on the door...

The kids who grew up without (primarily) dad at home.  And of course (now to a smaller degree becoming common) missing their mom.

All who served.  We all have someone to remember.  The moment of silence is to remember the lost, and respect to those who have lost, or are being silent in remembrance. 

It doesn't have to be one day, one hour, one moment, once a year.  I try to remember every day.