On Remembrance Day of 2017, I was driving back to my house from my guitar lesson, and Ozzy Osbourne’s ‘Mama I’m Comin’ Home’ came on the radio. My mind began thinking about the song as I listened and I remembered a friend from high school that I hadn’t thought of for quite a number of years. A friend who actually didn’t make it out of high school due to passing away as the result of an accident our graduating year. I found myself starting to have tears welling up in my eyes thinking about him and his actions back then, wondering what his life would’ve been like if he were still alive today.

To me, his actions were those of a true hero. He sacrificed his life, after first risking his life, to save the life of another human being after they had been swept into a riptide off the coast of California during a school trip that year. I think there were 4 people in total who lost their lives in this accident, including one of the chaperones of the trip. Our high school video had a tribute my friend with Ozzy’s song playing in the background; this was one of his favorite songs.

I recognize the importance of what Remembrance Day is about: honoring the memory of the ones who made the ultimate sacrifice during both World Wars. Their courage and bravery were called upon during a time in which the freedoms we enjoy today were threatened. I pay tribute to them every year at the 11th hour on November 11, as do many others. There are people in this world who put their lives at risk every day, sometimes multiple times a day, to save the life of another; heroes from the average Joe to those whose daily job requires this risk, and at times, the ultimate sacrifice is made in doing so.

I believe that these everyday heroes deserve a moment of silence to be remembered as well. Why? Because they fought for another human being’s right to live, regardless of whether they succeeded in their endeavor or not. So here’s to all the everyday heroes, for those who risk their lives on a daily basis, and for those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice for the life of another human being. And here’s to you. buddy, for your heroism; I hope you’re watching over us all and kickin’ it up with all the greats.

Lest We Forget.

🤘🏻