Remembrance Day

Lest we forget. If it were not for the brave men and women who serve their country on our behalf, we would not be able to enjoy the freedoms that we do. In today’s society, it’s far too easy to get overwhelmed by little things, so we should all take a moment to consider the big picture.

We call it Remembrance Day here in Canada, they call it Veterans Day in the United States. The first couple of posts in today’s speedlink approach this subject, talking about great wars and why we wear poppies on our lapels. The other three discuss different subjects, giving us a more comprehensive view of the world at large. Enjoy.

Ray Ebersole works in the education field, so he sees each and every day what happens in our schools. In a post from two years ago, he’s noticed that standardized tests like the FCAT have focused too much on math and English, and not enough on social studies and civics. Where is the lesson on Pearl Harbor? Why is history taking a back seat?

Sean Rasmussen offers a terrific summary of Remembrance Day. In the post, we are given some background information on Armistice Day, the significance of the Flanders Poppy, and how they really “didn’t want to fight.” A good read.

Leo Babauta reminds us that we should not confuse motion with action. Sometimes, it can difficult to remember how to keep moving forward, so Leo offers us 13 little rules of action. Don’t overthink it, forget about perfection, and take small steps.

Joseph Planta has had the opportunity to interview many great people in his day, but very few are quite as great as the legendary Dal Richards. The 91-year-old big band leader is as healthy as he has ever been and he just released his new memoir, One More Time. Did you know that Dal gave Michael Buble his first paying singing engagement?

Bernie Yee is reaching that time in his life when everyone asks him what he wants to be when he grows up. It’s time to take some action, either through training or education, and Bernie thinks that he wants to be teacher. He enjoys the company of children and he’s been told that he has the patience to pull it off. Good luck!