Day 129 - remembering and honouring

Friday has arrived!  The day was more of the same at the office, with the exception of an impromptu lunch outing to celebrate a colleague's birthday. It felt rather decadent to go out for lunch, since our days are generally so full during the academic year -- so such things don't occur until the summer months when work is rumoured to slow (not yet experienced that <smile>).

I reflected on a couple of things throughout the day.  Today was a national day of honour for troops having served in Afghanistan. This will be the service that my students think of as 'their' conflict. For me, it was Viet Nam. I've met vets and know of Canadians who died in the conflict. I've been to the Wall in Washington, which is such an sobering memorial. All 50,000 (or so) names of those who died over there are listed chronologically on a wall built into a small vale. As you walk down the walls get taller and then begin getting shorter as you walk up and out. The walls are made to reflect life and are a highly polished black marble-like surface.As you look at the names, you see yourself and all the other people walking through.  It is one of the most powerful memorials  I have ever visited.

The other thing I discussed with friends at lunch was that today is Billy Joel's 65th birthday. Where does that time go? <smile>  He has been doing a monthly concert at Madison Square Garden for 3 months and plans to continue as long as he can sell tickets. Sounds like time for a trip to NYC <smile>>

The selection for today blends these two items. It is a song sung at Kennedy Center Honors last December where Billy Joel was honored. The song deals with the Vietnam war and is sung by another of my favourite male singers.I also attached a video of Billy Joel singing the full song -- just as a Friday bonus <smile>. Enjoy!

Goodnight Saigon -- Garth Brooks

Goodnight Saigon -- Billy Joel