So today is the 11th November 2020, and on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month each year in the UK we come together in community spirit, stand-still and remember those who died during WW1 with a 2 minute silence. The whole nation as on Remembrance Sunday stops to reflect. This moment in our time commemorates each year the signing of the armistice for the cessation of hostilities on the Western Front between the Allie forces and Germany in 1918.
Actually, at this time, I feel moved to celebrate all those who have died during conflict and served around the World in all nations, not just on Remembrance Sunday . It is also a time contemplate about all those who affect our lives, family and friends, and remember everyone.
The haunting sound of a bugler playing ‘the Last Post’ resonates in my head long after its completion, driving a myriad of thoughts and emotions. It never fails to amaze me how this sombre tune makes you stop and think.
Today, I even took time to light a virtual candle and send a prayer at the church of St Stephen Walbrook, City of London. The advent of the internet has given us all the opportunity to share are thoughts, wisdom and prayers, and take action . None more so pertinent during this challenging Covid 19 lockdown – we can visit a church, or a place of meaningful solitude, virtually, without ever leaving the house, keeping all around us safe, but at the same time share our emotional feelings openly.
It is at these times of reflection that I personally further think about all the atrocities that have happened in the World and unnecessary deaths caused by conflict and beliefs. Even this week the senseless and upsetting killings of many in Mozambique by a few with radical beliefs/ideology. What has been achieved except further pain for the families of those killed?
So stop and remember all at these times, and say a prayer for those who we love. Just then maybe one day we can all live in harmony. But perhaps that is a being too idealistic, but let’s pray and think anything is possible.
The Grey Chameleon 