Lest we forget...

Flowers at church that George did to mark 100 years since armistice. So glad we got back from Cornwall in time for me to go to church (though sad I missed the morning) - Donald did something very rare for him (as someone who keeps his personal life VERY private). In the morning he told about his mother’s Dad and in the evening about his Dad’s dad.

He spoke of how his dad had no relationship with his Dad, because he was a failed GP, who spent most of his time sleeping because of a heroine addiction, and speed to wake himself up... all because he couldn’t sleep. He became bankrupt and so ended up living with Donald’s family when he was little and his dad paid off his debts to avoid shame even though he was still addicted to drugs and prescribing them for himself...

It was only after both his grandad and his dad died that Donald’s mum discovered the contents of a chest - a military cross medal and a letter from Donald’s grandad describing to his sister the day he was awarded the cross for - they now realise it was probably the first day of the Somme - and how he didn’t feel he deserved it - it was just that by luck he was one of those that survived...

They now realise his drug addiction and problems sleeping were a result of serious PTSD... but Donald’s dad never even knew his Dad had been awarded this medal, let alone what had happened while he was fighting in WW1!

Donald then led a sensitive response and reflection on not glorifying killing, and being aware of the effects it has on the people who have to do it for different reasons - and remembering not only those that have died but those that didn’t who feel maybe they should have done, and the friends and family affected...