Mixed Feelings Impacted

Mixed Feelings Impacted

Like many Canadians I have mixed feelings on Canada’s role in conflicts around the world.

I know there are people who are unable to defend themselves who need the world to help. As the father of two teenage daughters, who I am confident will have bright futures in whatever they decide to do, I can only imagine the pain and despair of girls their age in parts of the world where they are not able to go to school. As we now know, this is only one of the many injustices they face.

I do NOT however have mixed feelings when it comes to my support for and genuine respect of those Canadians who serve in the military. While I cannot really relate to the commitment they make to serve, I know that the commitment and impact on their lives is huge.

Over the last couple of months, I have met three unrelated people who have amplified my respect for those who serve. I thought sharing a little about these people would in some small way make a difference.

1. My wife and I have befriended a couple where the guy (father of three girls) is a military chopper pilot who has served in the middle east.
Update: Father is preparing to Afghanistan in March.

2. Our new neighbours are spending lots of family time together these days as the dad prepares for his third tour (this time for 7 months) in the middle east.
Update: Father has returned from Afghanistan with injuries.

3. I purchased a 2nd hand road bike this week from a guy I never met before. Through small talk on line, on the phone, and finally when we met, I find out that he is in the military and has already served in the middle east, will be returning in the next 12 months, and is currently caring for his two children under 5 while his wife finishes her 7 month tour.

These three military family stories (which I have only summarized at a high level for obvious reasons) have really opened my eyes and my mind about the types of Canadians who are literally putting their lives on hold and on the line to help others. It was only through the process of getting to know these people that I realized the unbelievable sacrifice they have already made and are making.

I found myself being at a loss for words. What could I possibly say to these amazing Canadians which could do justice to their commitment and sacrifice. The only thing I could come up with was: “Thank you”.

As I heard myself say these words I felt somewhat guilty and lame, but in all three cases I believe those simple words were truly appreciated.

So what have I taken from all of this?

-When we hear and discuss the merits of Canada’s role in conflicts around the world we must always remember and realize the impact of on lives on both sides of the conflict.

-We must appreciate all what we have in Canada and realize that we are among the luckiest people on earth. We all find ourselves complaining about everyday things like the traffic, the weather, the length of a line up, yet these things are so so trivial in the big picture.

-We have a moral responsibility to help those in the world who are unable to defend themselves.


- Our role on the ground in these conflict areas is important.

- The people who have decided for their own reasons to serve our country and make a difference need our support, respect and thanks.

-A genuine “Thank you” is appreciated.

Dan MacDonald
danmacdonald100@gmail.com

Update:
November 11, 2010

Lest We Forget.
Remembering all those who have served and their loved ones.
See updates above.