In our busy world, being silent is not something we often do, but this week I want to encourage everyone to schedule time to pause and reflect as we mark Remembrance Day.
This Saturday – 11 November – we will pause to mark the moment the guns fell silent on the Western Front after the bloodshed of World War I.
It was the moment the Armistice was signed in 1918, ending four years of fighting.
Over the past century, this moment has been adopted across the globe as a time to remember those who served and sacrificed in all wars and conflicts.
Organisations such as the Returned Services League (RSL) of Queensland, Legacy and others are urging people to keep the legacy of our service people alive.
I encourage everyone to take the time to acknowledge this moment and observe a minute’s silence at 11am if they are able.
In the lead-up to the day, I also urge everyone to find out the details of their local service and purchase a poppy or two from the many stands operating at local shopping centres and community spaces.
The Flanders poppy has long been a part of Remembrance Day.
During the First World War, red poppies were among the first plants to spring up in the devastated battlefields of northern France and Belgium.
Over the years, poppies have been sold to raise funds for vital welfare work, something which continues to this day.
Ahead of Remembrance Day, the RSL has also joined forces with local schools to share the day’s message with them.
Some ways to mark the day can also be found on the RSL’s website.
This includes details on how to undertake a memorial trail walk focusing on the more than 1000 war memorials (including parks and avenues of honour) across Queensland, including sites in the City of Logan.
We must never forget the lives which have been laid at the altar of freedom.
In a time of worldwide unrest and conflict, it is more important than ever for us to remember the sacrifices others have made before us to create a more peaceful world.
Lest we forget …
