November 11th, Remembrance Day, easy to miss the significance of this day in our busy lives. This day, unlike so many others is not another contrivance of modern marketing, but a day set aside for us to pay tribute to the sacrifices so many made before us so that we can enjoy the freedom we take for granted.
We buy our poppies and we honour our veterans on this day, even have a "moment of silence" ... but somehow it doesn't seem to be enough.
I was playing darts at the Port Credit Legion Hall years ago, and in between games I happened to sit at a table with a veteran of World War 2. He had been there many times in the past, and I had never spoken to him more than perhaps a perfunctory greeting.
I am not sure what prompted our conversation that day, but I thanked him for choosing to fight in war to preserve our freedom, and as we continued to talk, our conversation drifted to his service during WWII.
He was 18, barely a child who chose to fight for our freedom. I remember wondering if I would have made that choice. In that one conversation, he seemed to make war real to me. It is not like the old movies made it seem. He talked of battle, but seemed to gloss over the tragedies he must have faced, death all around him, an instead chose to share memories of friendships and encounters. I remember trying to put myself in his shoes, wondering how those scars would have affected me. How he could leave it behind and move on. I was reminded of the saying "I complained because I had no shoes, until I saw a man with no feet".
I have never looked at any veteran the same way. To live through their experiences, bear the scars, both physically and mentally, to do that all for us. they are true heroes. And it seems that one day a year just isn't enough to let them know how truly greatful we are.
In the years since, I have encountered many veterans, in store, church, on the street, and have not taken the time to say thank you. I apologize for that. New Tecumseth is still home to veterans, some of whom I encounter throught the course of the day. I will make a point of seeking them out and thanking them, not only as we lead up to Remembrance Day, but whenever we meet, it is the very least I can do. The next time you see a veteran, whether you know him (or her) or not, take the time to say thank you to them. Who knows, it might lead to a lasting friendship and enrich both your lives.
To all the veterans out there, I owe the freedom I enjoy and take for granted to your sacrifices, Thank You.
