Lest we forget

[Father Bill]

I've been doing some thinking over the last couple of days. I had the time to do that because I was doing my bit as Padre to our branch of the Royal Canadian Legion, distributing poppies at Loblaws.


Some people said "I don't have any change; I'll get you on the way out." I offered them a poppy and said, "Here - please wear it and catch me when you can or catch somebody else if I've finished my shift."


Some people said, "I already have one - it's on my jacket out in the car." I offered them a poppy and said, "Here please wear one while you're in the store."


Some people were wearing a poppy and put money in the box, saying "I need to put more into the fund." I thanked them for their contribution and also for honouring our vets by wearing a poppy.


One of the best moment for me was three very little Muslim kids who each put in a nickel and said, with serious eyes "For Canada soldier" I thanked them with equal gravity and gave them each a poppy. I also gave their Mamma one, which she pinned on her hijab. I thanked her too - for teaching her children so well.


People make a false connection between putting in a contribution to the Poppy Fund and wearing a poppy. They're two different things. The contribution is to help those who came back. The poppy is to honour those who didn't.


Yes, the contribution is welcome, but please wear your poppy too. They're for two different groups of veterans.


Father Bill White,
Padre, Branch 501
Royal Canadian Legion