Lest We Forget

November 11, 1918 is a critical point in our history that defines who we are as a nation to date. Before World War 1 Canada was viewed as a minor country and simply as an attachment of England's power. We were pioneers. We were not too familiar with the methods of war or how to stand as a nation against opposition. The most recent war that Canada was involved in during that time was 1812 and that was about a hundred years prior to the shot heard around the world. Ignorance is bliss because Canada came out of war as a new mature nation that was more independent than it was before. It was because of this "great war"and Canada's involvement and persistence throughout World War 1 that we speak the language we do with the rights and freedoms we have present. Remembrance  Day stands for recognizing all we have to be grateful for and the people that helped us live in a peaceful nation. Though many people, in particular teenagers, think November 11 to be a regular day, a day that is not necessary to participate in, Our Lady of Lourdes does one thing I will always admire about this school, and that is community involvement.  Every November 11 that falls on a weekday the "whole" school walks to the Sleeman Centre to watch and listen to special guests and veterans speak about the importance of this day, how much Canada truly contributed and how we should never forget the sacrifices that our soldiers made for the lives we live. Although many students from Lourdes realize the importance of what our school does and what this day means, sadly several do not understand the purpose of this day. As I was walking to the Sleeman Centre I saw many students taking detours whether it be by car, simply running in a direction I'm most certain is not towards the Sleeman Centre or not even showing up that morning. Too many students thought that their act of rebellion was humorous. The truth is Remembrance Day is an occasion that applies to everyone because without this day who knows what history could have in store for us. All it takes is two minutes in your day to stop in silence, contemplate and realize all that we have to be grateful for, however, for some that is too much effort. Even "friends" of mine ditched, and I still haven't expressed my anger, and disappointment until now. Remembrance Day is more than just one day it stands as a constant reminder or the tragic state the world was once in and the promise we made with our soldiers to never forget, "... Take up our quarrel with the foe: To you from falling hands we throw the torch; be yours to hold it high. If ye break faith with us who die We shall not sleep, though poppies grow In Flanders Field." (John McCrae, In Flanders Fields) Appreciate life, let us show gratitude to our own veterans and Lest We Forget.