Sunday, June 5, 2011

Remembering



Today was a day for remembering with our collective consciousness. Remembering much of what we, personally, have never lived, and hope to never live. I learned that the first Sunday in June is our official memorial day. So Riley and I got up early this weekend morning and headed out to the veteran's cemetery to meet up with other scouts to plant flags at the foot stone for each our veterans in anticipation of the afternoon ceremony.

It wasn't long before I got a blister and the end of one finger is still numb from working the poles into hardened soil, but this is hardly worth complaining about, considering.

I thought it was a useful exercise even though November 11 is recognized in school here with soldiers and veterans going in and talking to the students. I feel honouring those who fought so we could live free as we do is something that should never be held lightly.

Understanding life in war time is something, gratefully, we have not experienced first hand. Despite the wars fought in our lifetimes they were/are still all "over there". Seeing the flags and realizing each one marks one life, one soul, is sobering. And this is just a drop in the bucket. Seeing more than just Canadian flags made it feel even more universal.

For the second time this week I found myself in a cemetery but this time with a purpose. It felt odd to have someone suggest that our picture be taken together, odd to find ourselves smiling even. With reflection though, this was an act that brought more than somberness to our hearts, it also brought gratitude and peace which is certainly worth smiling at.

4 comments:

Sherry said...

This is beautiful and awe inspiring and it chokes you up -- just seeing all those flags on all those graves...and what it all really means.

Evan was looking for flags like that for his trip to France, but we couldn't find any. I know they'll be able to purchase Canadian flags there -- they will be visiting Flanders field and many other battle sites and graves and want to plant the flags...it's so moving.

And this is a most beautiful photo of you and your man!!! ♥

oreneta said...

What a fabulous photo of you both!

I didn't know that this was the official vetran's day? What's with Nov 11th then?

Cheryl said...

Amazing~ Totally, utterly awesome. Thank you for remembering on behalf of others.

Kim Mailhot said...

This is a sweet life moment, Kim, for you and Riley. Remembering...

Love to you both !