Remembrance Day

Today is Remembrance Day in Canada and a similar kind of day in so many other countries.  It is a day we remember those who have fought in wars to keep our part of the world free and safe.  This freedom hasn't come without a cost.  I've always known this but this year it is striking home a little bit more.

I have recently been getting to know 2 Army veterans (both in their 40's), both medically released because of mental health injuries from deployments.  I am really starting to see how the experiences they had affect them, and will forever.  There is no full recovery, only ways to be better, manage and hopefully move on.  The treatments they have will help them manage the symptoms of their illnesses.  Funny how when things become more personal they affect us more.

Thinking of the sacrifices makes me sad.  It makes me sad to live in a world where war seems to be the only answer.  Where violence is so prevalent that more violence is the only way to combat it.  Where crazy people somehow get to be in charge and affect the lives of so many people.  Where dictators kill their own citizens.   Where people lay down their lives to procure freedom for others.  Where we seem to forget that those that come back alive still have seen some terrible things.  Where we honour sports players and movie stars with tonnes of money and veterans are homeless, often due to their injuries.  Where we notice the physical injuries and do what we can to accommodate them, but the invisible injuries not so much.

Today I remember all those who fought for the freedom and safety I have today.  I honour all those who believe that this matters and are willing to give everything they have, including their own lives to protect it.