As Christmas approaches, it is once again the season for reflection. I am a bit of a ‘hoarder’ and as such enjoy reading through old correspondence occasionally. Today I read some letters from a former military comrade. In particular I read some that he wrote to me while he was posted to Sarajevo. See the image for an excerpt from one of those letters.
The letters reminded me of two things that are especially relevant right now.
- Bravery is not the lack of fear. It is all about simply going forward and doing the job despite how you may feel deep down inside. This holds true for all first responders like the fire fighters who worked day after day in Northern Ontario and California this summer. It certainly is true for our members of the Armed Forces and when I say ‘our’ I mean my Canadian colleagues as well as our allies. I am especially thinking of those Americans who are currently in chaos in Syria as they attempt to reconcile their glad anticipation of going home with the horrendous knowledge of a job and people about to be abandoned. I also think, of course, of the Allies left behind to somehow carry on in the vacuum.
- As a Canadian, I am continually thankful for this peace-loving, safe and beautiful country that I live in. I am free to think, speak and act as I choose as long as I don’t hurt others with my choices. I breathe fresh air. I drink abundant clean water. I live a charmed life and know how lucky I am to live it.
Reading my friend’s letter again, I think of today’s refugees attempting to simply find a safe place to live. I’m glad that Canada is a welcoming country and know that we as a society are better for being that way.
Thank you, Bill, for your letters of ’92 and ’93 that I can continue to read and be reminded about how lucky I am – in so many things, including the blessings of good friends.
Renny your words as usual are so breath taking and inspiring. I too am grateful to live in this Free, beautiful, friendly …… I can go on and on …. country of ours. To have and keep all my wonderful friends is one of the most precious treasures I have. For over 40 years you being there for me is undeniably one of the Best. I wish you and family including of course the dogs, the best of the season and a super 2019.
Marg
Xoxo
Thanks Renny for posting this. Little did I know, back at 709 as a private’ that Bill Wickson was such an interesting, articulate person. What experiences he had in the Forces as his career progressed.
There’s not a day goes by that I don’t feel thankful for some aspect of my life and thank you for reminding me how lucky we are to live in this peaceful, just country that people flock to from all over the world. Have a very Merry Christmas and a great year in 2019,
Heather
As always Renny well spoken. You remind us that we have so much to be grateful for. I am so thankful as well for your friendship over these many years.
Merry Christmas and wishing you lots of wonderful adventures in 2019.
Karen
Beautiful words Renny, … so inspiring. I also am continually grateful to call Canada HOME… we are very fortunate to be here.
I am delighted and very thankful as well to share a long time friendship with you!!!
Wishing you and the pups only the Best for 2019.
Suzanne XO
I could sit here all day and read your posts. I echo the other sentiments from your friends. You are so inspiring and speak the truth so much more eloquently than I could ever hope to. I actually am all choked up after this one. Thank you.
Thank you my friend!
Hello! I was going through some old photos and letters from my mom years ago and came across letters from a Bill Wickson in the Canadian Forces in 1993. Every few years, I try doing a search to see if I can reach out to him to say thank you for the letters, and was surprised to finally find this post! Would you be able to reach out to me to me? I can send you a photo of one of his postcards.
Thank you so much!