We Remember

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” -John 15:13

The strength of our love is demonstrated by what we are willing to sacrifice in order to do good to others. The greatest sacrifice one can give is their life.

Remembrance Day is a time to commemorate those who were willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for others. To this end, public Remembrance Day ceremonies are a reflection of what we value. When we gather at cenotaphs around the country to hear the haunting melody of the ‘Last Post’, we are bringing to mind that which is most worthy of our attention: the sacrificial love and honour of those who paid the ultimate price. 

As finite human beings, we are prone to forgetfulness. Added to this, we are living in a time when there is a concerted effort to erase the past from public memory. This revision of history and cancelling of traditions is, amongst other things, an attempt to erase our values as a nation. It is an attempt to demoralize and atomize and weaken the bonds which unite us.

Commemorating Remembrance Day is a reminder of and a recommitment to the values of those who have gone before us: Bravery. Sacrifice. Justice. Patriotism. Freedom. Love.

These virtues were embodied by ordinary Canadians who committed themselves to doing extraordinary acts of service. 

Let us, likewise, carry the torch that was passed on to us. 

Lest we forget.