When I read the stories of all the newbies, it makes me remember when I was first afflicted with bfs. It brings me back a bit to those first, unsettling days of worry and anxiety, but also makes me remember the triumph that I felt when I realized that I was a miracle living on a wonder.
Today I'm remembering too, because in Canada it is Remembrance day, or Veterans day in the States. My dad was a WWII vet, and my mom a war bride. However, I never really thought much about the sacrifice of the fathers and mothers of my generation. Out of sight, out of mind. I had to make the odd trip to the cenotaph as a boy, where a wreath would be laid, and guns fired. But, the only fighting I saw was old men, their chest covered in medals, fighting back tears; it really wasn't on my radar.
Today, it seems I can not go about my day without hearing about young men and women paying the ultimate sacrifice. Canada, so far, has had close to 50 soldiers killed in Afghanistan; which pales in comparison to the 3000 Americans killed in Iraq. I know the UK has had their share of losses too. So, today, as it is November the 11th, I am just nodding a little to those beautiful people who have lost their lives. I am not questioning the why, nor the wherefore, of these conflicts. I am only acknowledging that too many people, the world over, have had their earthly dreams end…far too soon.
Basso