Last Saturday we spent some time at the newly reopened National War Memorial.
Maybe we all have extra cause for reflection this year as Remembrance Day approaches, given the disturbing rise of the alt-right in the US and Europe, the horrors in Syria, the provocations of Russia…not to mention threats from North Korea or Iran or who knows where else. But from my small vantage point, I am feeling much more grateful than ever for all those who have sacrificed to make our world better.
Over my 24 years of living in Ottawa, the image of Remembrance Day for me is the National War Memorial, with the ancient vets waiting in wheelchairs and with walkers, resolute against the cold of November, as the bugle sounds the Last Post, below drab skies and falling rain, sometimes snow.
The Memorial has been hidden for the last seven months as part of a major restoration project. Most mornings I ride my bike past the site on my way to work. I have missed it. Before the restoration, I enjoyed seeing the visitors who always seemed to be there no matter what time of day, taking photos or perhaps reflecting on the statues or on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The site is clearly important to people and, for me, made even more important, more solemn, more immediate, by the killing of Corporal Nathan Cirillo in October 2014.
When we read last Saturday that the Memorial had reopened Friday, we decided we should go there right away, like visiting an old friend who has been away too long.
On the way to the Memorial, we paused to view a couple walking under the trees along the Rideau Canal (view from the pedestrian bridge). In my 24 years of living in Ottawa, I can’t remember when the leaves were still on trees as Remembrance Day approaches.The Peace Tower – a symbolic link between the National War Memorial and War Museum. Viewed from the bridge over the Canal by the Chateau Laurier,.Over 24 years, I have visited the Memorial many times and pass by it most mornings on my way to work. After the restoration, it was good to take a new, fresh look at it.The larger than life figures, their elevated position, create a sense of movement…emotion..Though I will be out of town this Friday, I will still think of this symbol of Remembrance, as I have extra cause to reflect and be thankful this year on the eleventh hour…
I write about the small and significant moments that shape our lives — family stories, friendships, personal observations, lessons learned, and the quiet experiences that often matter most. This site is a place to reflect on life with curiosity, gratitude, and honesty: the challenges that strengthen us, the people who influence us, and the everyday moments that deserve to be remembered. From cycling journeys and travel to conversations with grandchildren and reflections on resilience, I hope these writings encourage thoughtful living and deeper connection. My mission is to build a family legacy of strength, generosity, and steady & trustworthy leadership — embracing physical challenges, growing continuously, and encouraging my family and community to rise to theirs. I believe a meaningful life is built not only through accomplishments, but through consistency, kindness, endurance, and the example we leave for others.
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