Devoting a few minutes of silence on Remembrance Day can seem like a lifetime when you have meetings to attend, items to check off the "to do" list, and emails to type. But in the busyness of life, it's important to remember soldiers and veterans who have sacrificed their lives and personal comforts so we could enjoy our own. Show your appreciation to our troops by participating in these meaningful gestures:
Attend a ceremony. Back in grade school, mandatory assemblies kept us on track with the purpose and significance of Remembrance Day.
But with age comes responsibility, and without your teacher's insistence, it can become difficult to stay accountable. Give your respect to those who fought and continue to fight for your freedom by scheduling time to attend a ceremony or watching one on television.
Poppy pride. From the last Friday in October to November 11, pin a poppy on the left lapel of your garment or as close to the heart as possible.
This will publicly remind you of what it represents and will also encourage others to do the same.
Thank soldiers personally. Send a letter or card to express your appreciation. Mailing addresses are listed on the Department of National Defence website. You can also post a message to troops on the site's message board.
Put others first. Follow the example of Canadian soldiers who aim to bring peace and security to countries in need and do your part to help those who suffer. Christian Children's Fund of Canada offers a gift catalogue where you can purchase items such as an insecticide treated bed net or a clean water well in honour of our troops (www.ccfcanada.ca/Gifts). (NC)
