I was up bright and early to do myself up for my appearance today. It is not everyday that one gets the opportunity to mingle among such people of distinction. Aside the gamete of dignitaries, there were many old men. They all look somewhat uniform, dressed similarly, twinkles in eyes behind sombre expressions. Smiles, silence, closed eyes, reverence, majesty, and contemplation. As a group, we did this this morning… for just a moment.
As a group of individuals bearing insigniae, colors, costumes… bringing words of congregation, and peace.
Love, joy… these are the things they no longer enjoy, but they are the gifts they left behind for us.
I, privileged to bear witness, bearing my own arms.
It’s always difficult for me to find the angle, I am not as obtuse or evident than many of my confreres. High as I lift my arm I will NEVER be a crane, as much as I would like to. This morning’s shoot was I believe my 3rd or 4th, so I’m wondering what NEW I can bring to a moment that is becoming routine (yet despite the routine, I continue to attend). I like to think I shot good stuff this morning, we’ll see when Kevin edits the moment up.
We were asked this morning to remember the future, and while at the time I was confused (how can one remember something that hasn’t happened?) after shifting my focus from the old to the new… I knew.
I took care to note the many young faces that marched up Simcoe street today… I focused in on a few.
I hope they never leave home.
I hope they never see blood.
I hope they never know loss.
I know that these hopes will never be fulfilled… they are the hopes of mothers throughout history who have packed off their husbands and sons on a campaign… hoping to see them again.
Not knowing how they would survive, but knowing they had to.
I met a man this morning who enlisted at the age of 15. He served heroically, apparently having saved the life of a young Norwegian princess. He is proudly three years shy of 90.
I reminded my children that this man was younger than they are when he was conducting this business… Lest they forget.