This last Sunday was Remembrance Day, the day when we pay tribute to our veterans.

As the representative of the Federal Government I am often asked to say a few words to honour the sacrifice of those who gave their all for their country. I admit I often struggle to find the right words to pay the proper tribute. How can mere words sufficiently convey the depth of the gift that was given? How can one consecrate the memory of those that went before?

But as Prime Minister Harper said in his speech, ”Not everyone can attend a Remembrance Day Ceremony…, But no matter where we are, at the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, we can pause and reflect on the price paid for the peace and prosperity we enjoy today.”

No greater gift has been given to you and me than the gift given us by those who gave their lives for us. The Scriptures say it best. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. John 13:15

Thank you to all you veterans from the government and people of Canada. We will never forget, we owe so much.