Katharina Gould
Let Your Light Shine:
When people think about November, the first thing that comes to mind is Remembrance Day. Nov. 11 is a day dedicated to those who lost their lives at war, whether it was nearly a hundred years ago in the First World War, or the present day battles that are being fought overseas. We take this time to appreciate and respect their efforts that gave us our rights and freedom. Sometimes we take their efforts for granted. During this time it is important to be aware of our history, and know Canada’s role in the war, as they tried to maintain peace. Also, as remembrance of the millions who died on the battlefield, we wear a poppy. The poppy became a symbol for the soldiers who died in battle. The connection of the poppy and war came to be during WWI when John McCrae wrote the popular poem, “In Flanders Fields.” The poem was written in response to the fields that were barren before battle, and then after fighting the war the fields became abundant with poppies. Then, in 1920 poppies were distributed across Canada when a woman decided to sell hand-made poppies to raise money for destitute children in war-torn areas in France. So, with each poppy that is worn we remember the soldiers.
As a school, we remember the fallen soldiers, and respect the courageous men and women presently at war. In support of Remembrance Day, we are having Red Friday on November 7th, and we ask all students, and staff members to participate and wear red on this day. There is a colouring contest for students of all ages at St. Augustine to participate in. Also, we will have a Remembrance Day celebration at the school on Friday, Nov. 7 at 10:30 in the secondary gym. This is for Grades 7 to 12, and anyone in the community that wishes to join. At the celebration there will be a multi-media video presentation, a guest speaker, as well as poems and pictures being shared by students. Please come and join us. The elementary grades are having their own celebration in the primary gymnasium at 10:30 a.m. This is for kindergarten to Grade 6 students. The festivity is hosted by the Grade 2s, and there will be a guest speaker from the Ponoka Branch of the Royal Canadian Legion who will be sharing stories about the war, and the importance of Remembrance Day.
At this time, we ask God to bless all the men and women, who were involved in the wars and also bless the children and families who have felt the effects of the war. May God bless them all. Please take a moment and remember everyone’s efforts and thank God for our blessings.