The End of World War Two.

The photograph displayed on the USS Missouri in Pearl Harbour, Hawaii.

We were in Hawaii a little over a year ago and spent a day visiting the USS Missouri.  The battleship was the last one built by the US and was finished in 1945; it was the place where the Japanese finally surrendered and put an end to the war.  A large photograph on the starboard side of the ship captured the moment with General McArthur at the table.  If you look carefully at the officers, you will notice each one of them is numbered.  Their names are given in the script to the bottom right of the shot.

It was a poignant moment for me, seeing that image, with the realization of what the cost of the freedoms I enjoy really is.  The power of the ship, the ghosts of those who served upon her and her nearby sister ship, Arizona, filled me with humility and a deep sense of pride.  I have always respected those that serve and have served.  My grandfather served in the war.  Even though he returned from the war, unlike so many others that sacrificed everything, the burdens of the experiences weighed heavily upon him for the rest of his days.

We use Remembrance Day as a time to remember those who died in service of their country.  We stand silently to honour those lost far too young as we gaze in retrospect at the poppies and crosses which symbolize their sacrifice.  Too often though we forget those that survived the ravages of war but are still carrying the physical and emotional scars they have received.  To our shame, many of them have needs which are not being met because of policies beyond their control.  I think our freedoms are worth more than what little they are asking for.  We owe them everything.  It is not too much to ask to help them when they are in need.

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Michelle Silk; knowing what is important.

Michelle Silk (left) and her family (inset).

It was Michelle's birthday yesterday and I posted the above photo on facebook to celebrate that fact.  I like the composition because it addresses the question, "Who is Michelle Silk?" 

The portrait of her was taken at Tsusiat Falls on the West Coast Trail.  Anyone who has completed the journey would attest to its arduous nature.  She did the trek because of her love of the outdoors and desire to spend quality time with the people she cares about.  Mostly though, she did it because it was a way of bonding her family together; the challenge would build character, memories, and further family unity.

That last thought is the one foremost in her mind; it is the impetus that carries Michelle through the struggles which have a way of presenting themselves to each of us daily.  She has had more obstacles than most of us would ever care to admit to, and in spite of them, she has faced each one with determination and grace. 

Those of you who know Michelle will attest to this; it is not my intention to list what she has had to overcome, but rather to acknowledge her successes and perseverance.  I appreciate her great love of family and the loyalty she gives to her friends.  Her time is spent on that which is important to her.  The West Coast Trail is a good example.  It was not on her bucket list nor did she ever yearn to complete it.  The fact was her family and friends held those desires; her ambitions were to support those that needed help and share in the experience.

I appreciate Michelle because she knows what is important and strives to implement and support those things.  Her gentle, caring nature is shaped by her determination to make a difference and her desire to support the people she loves.  Although it was Michelle's birthday yesterday, I feel that I am the one who has received a gift.  She has made me a better person and I am thankful for knowing her.  I think we all feel the same way.

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