333 Intermediate Essay, Third Place Sunghan "Billy" Park, Branch #118 - North Vancouver The Hidden Meaning I remember my first Remembrance Day parade. I was twelve years old. I had joined my local Boy Scouts group, and on November 11th, we marched all the way to a nearby park where a ceremony was being held. It was a clear, sunny day with wisps of clouds dancing in the sky, and there was a gentle breeze. We stood in front of a majestic-looking stone pillar, and impressive army officials wearing navy uniforms were placing beautiful wreaths in front of it. Crowds of people were gathered to watch this solemn ceremony. It was a beautiful sight, but unfortunately, I didn't appreciate it. I could barely see anything because of the tall kid standing in front of me. My weary legs ached, and I had to go to the bathroom. I only knew the first three or four lines of "O Canada" at that time, so I just hummed along, eyeing others to see if they noticed. The uniform I wore was too stuffy, and the neckerchief around my collar was too tight. I shifted uncomfortably during the moments of silence, daydreaming about my lunch and worrying about homework. Afterwards, in the parade, I laboriously carried the flagpole, too exhausted to talk and wondering when this tedious event would end. Now fast forward a year. In grade eight, my English teacher first introduced to me the Royal Canadian Legion Youth Remembrance Contest and encouraged me to join. Rather reluctantly, as my previous impression of Remembrance Day wasn't the best, I planned and wrote a poem. In my research, though, I learned a lot about Canada's involvement in World War 1. I read tear-jerking stories, watched documentaries of battles, and listened to accounts from Canadian War veterans. That's when I had an epiphany. Before, I had naively thought that Canada was just famous for hockey, free healthcare, Tim Hortons, and beavers. Now, I realize the hidden meaning of Remembrance Day. It isn't only about flags or poppies or wars and battles; instead, it's about the patriotism and courage of brave men and women who served Canada, as well as the resilience and tenacity of our nation. Remembrance Day is for the true heroes of the Great War: our very own citizens and soldiers who wanted all of us to have a bright and better future. Freedom is something we all take for granted, but the struggles and efforts of our ancestors who brought that to us are usually overlooked. That's why it is crucial for all of us to remember their heroic acts and make sure they didn't go through all the trouble for nothing. I look back to that Remembrance Day procession two years ago, and realize how wrong I was about everything. Now, as a proud Canadian resident, I am greatly honoured to wear the poppy on my uniform and salute to those who served, and those who passed on.
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