Note: with a heart of remembrance, this loving guest essay is offered by Jolyon Vernon Druce.

The second Sunday in November is Remembrance Day (also known as Veterans Day on November 11th). We pay our respects to those that have lived the military life. When I was in Salt Lake City, Utah last month I stumbled upon a Memory Grove Park that is next to the state capitol. It is a beautiful place. As much a place of monuments to those that served as to an arboretum to shade the plaques. Touching the names touched me to think of all those caregivers that served but were not a part of the military. Doctors Without Borders in Afghanistan is a good example. Giving care to all when the unthinkable happens.                                                                        

 I have a friend that served as a conscientious objector during World War II. He was a Quaker
back then. He worked the lands to help bring our country the national parks we now enjoy. He volunteered to care for the sick and wounded. He cared deeply for humanity.  He became a monk. My father trained others to go out and fight for God and King and many he knew did not come back to renew friendships. My mother listened to Morse code and wrote it down so it could be decoded. We had relatives that were on merchant supply ships that were never heard of again.

I remember them all.
I honor them as their lives honor ours with life and dreams. To caregivers everywhere, I salute you in my prayers.

By-Jolyon Druce

Thank you, Jolyon for your ongoing participation and meaningful contributions to the JSW!

Above photo's by -Jolyon