'How we are all connected' is further honoured this month with our Remembrance Day assembly and our sharing of biographies, poems, art, songs, writings and more. Remembering past events and acknowledging their existence ensures reconciliation, forgiveness and an improved future for all peoples. Our goal is to develop a generation of learners that are holistic. A holistic approach to learning is based on the principle of interconnectedness and wholeness. Thus the student is seen as a whole person with body, mind, emotions and spirit. We talk and share stories of the past and remember those who have fallen for us. Teachers engage students in many activities that are cross curricular and embody all programs of study. Students develop a sense of belonging, of being included and of being cared for, of interconnectedness with something larger than ourselves. The focus becomes on respecting diverse others, being inclusive, compassionate and cooperative, and assuming leadership when needed. Ask your child what they are working on in school, in preparation of Remembrance Day. Ask them what their classroom wreath looks like or what they are making for it. Perhaps they can share the poems they are writing or the songs they are singing in Music class.
Remembrance Day has been observed since the end of the First World War to remember armed forces members who have died in the line of duty. On November 8th we observe National Aboriginal Veterans Day in recognition of the aboriginal contributions to military service. In 1939, Canada found itself at war for the second time in a generation. As in the First World War (1914-18), thousands of Indigenous soldiers and nurses volunteered for the war effort at home and abroad, serving with distinction in the Canadian army, navy, and air force. In most countries, Remembrance Day is observed on November 11th to recall the end of First World War hostilities. On this day, we acknowledge the important role of the men and women who risked life and limb to uphold world peace. We acknowledge the courage and sacrifice of those who served their country and acknowledge our responsibility to work for the peace they fought hard to achieve.
We wear a poppy on our lapel to symbolize our gratitude to those who have given their lives in battle, but most importantly we carry their memory in our hearts. We acknowledge that on this day we are presented with a collective opportunity to become deeper, compassionately richer and peaceful citizens. Poppies grew on the battlefields after World War One and while poppies have been associated with death throughout history, they also symbolize regeneration and eternal life.
The Three Pillars of Care provide us with a collaborative opportunity to learn from one another; to share stories of the past and to do better in the future as a Connected nation of responsible, peaceful, citizens. I challenge you today to Care for Others; Care for This Place and Care for Yourself! Stay connected to one another and share a lived experience with compassion and care.
