Remembrance day is Nov 11. Although not war veterans, I want to take a moment to honour two residents who were recent recipients of the Alberta Order of Excellence for their contributions to our country and province, which ultimately impacts our communities. Please read the brief write up on page 9. For more information about their societal contribution to the province, you can go to www.alberta.ca/the-alberta-order-of-excellence.
What we do in times of peace to preserve what was sacrificed at a time of conflict matters. Complacency compromises our freedom, and these two gentlemen continue to live a “non-complacent” life, giving of their time to make the lives of others better.
We may not be of the caliber or capacity of The Right Honourable Stephen J. Harper, or, Mr. Max Foran, but the principle meaning of the reward can be applied to us. What is one small thing you could start doing that will benefit our community to be a better place to live and work? These two men took their skills and passions and made meaningful contributions to the lives of others within the context of where they are and the work they do. In essence, they lived a selfless life. What is more important, is that it wasn’t just their individual effort, but the team or community around them that inspired them to work alongside them in pursuit of what they were working towards.
That same selflessness was in the men and women who gave of themselves in times of conflict; many paying the price of a horrific death, others, through sacrifice on the home front. At a time in history where the world is on edge, hopefully we can be men and women who give of ourselves for the betterment of others within the context of where we are. “Let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone…” (Galatians 6:9-10 ESV). Regardless of your religious affiliation, I think this statement is something we could all agree on. “As we have opportunity…” Every day, we have opportunities, choices, in how we respond to and act toward others in a positive manner.
From my family to yours,
Lowell Harder
