Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Remembrace Day




I have just learned about white poppies, and that some people wear them alongside the red poppy to represent peace.




To those who may not know, red poppies are worn on Remembrance Day to commemorate soldiers who have died in war.




I can also understand why some people would take offense to the white poppy, perhaps seeing it as disrespecting the greatest service and sacrifice that men and women who have gone to war have offered.




I have not lived through war, only the worry of not knowing what will happen to family members who were living in a warzone. No one in my family has served in the military. I am deeply grateful to those who serve and fight for what they believe to be a noble cause.




I am sure anyone who has lived through, or served amidst, the horrors of war would never glorify it. I have a feeling that veterans would be the greatest advocates for peace. A red poppy doesn’t glorify war. It gives us pause. And in that moment, our loved ones are called back to be amongst us, to be cradled in the love and gratitude we feel for them.



And just maybe, when they see a white poppy, they will also know that those of us who are here continue the effort of building a culture of peace, so that not one heart ever need witness what they carry in their souls.




Perhaps, in seeing this symbol of peace, they too will know peace.
Thank you.



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