Lest We Forget

It's Remembrance Day here in Canada, and, although I lost my poppy in the TTC the other day, I am remembering.


I have never had a family member die in a war. I have been lucky. My Dad's grandfather was in WWI, but survived. My Mom's father had just completed Air Force training when WWII finished. I know other families have not been so lucky.
So today, we remember those who have bravely fought and those who have lost their lives in our wars.

Today I also remember Pvt. William Cushley, or Will, as we called him in high school. I sat near him in Computers class, and he was always fun to sit near and laugh with, playing practical jokes on everyone who sat near him. Will joined the forces and went to fight in Afghanistan, where he lost his life. Rest in Peace, Will.

Remember
by Christina Rosetti

Remember me when I am gone away,
Gone far away into the silent land;
When you can no more hold me by the hand,
Nor I half turn to go yet turning stay.
Remember me when no more day by day
You tell me of our future that you plann'd:
Only remember me; you understand
It will be late to counsel then or pray.
Yet if you should forget me for a while
And afterwards remember, do not grieve:
For if the darkness and corruption leave
A vestige of the thoughts that once I had,
Better by far you should forget and smile
Than that you should remember and be sad.