As I do every year, this November 11th I will take a moment, no matter where I am, and observe a moment of silence for “Rememberance.” But this word is tricky, as I was neither alive for nor a part of any of the major conflicts this day centers on. I have never experienced the terror of battle or the sadness of being the one left at home to wonder. It is sometimes difficult for my generation to “remember” what we cannot fathom.
But what we are supposed to do today is not remember in the simple sense. We are being asked to be mindful that what we have attained today did not come without sacrifice. We are asked to think back to the lessons we have been taught and the pictures we have been shown about the many conflicts the world over and who fought in them. People just like me and my husband. People like my father and my sister and my best friend. We are asked to recall the many things we take for granted, and on this day to stop and appreciate the price of those things. And even if you do not support the causes, we are being asked to stand at attention and give a moment of thought to the soldiers and veterans (Past and Present) who sacrifice for our country and others.
Today, I do not just remember. Today, I am appreciative. Today, I am proud to be Canadian. Today, I am respectful. Today, I will reflect on the life I have, the life I want my children to have, and the men and women who fought so hard to provide something they may never have the chance to enjoy. Today, I hope that if the choice were ever mine, I would do the same.
Today, I do not forget.
Margaret Johnston
