by Nirmala Raniga

Today, we observe a memorial holiday, called Remembrance Day in Canada and Veteran’s Day in the U.S., to commemorate those who have served in the armed forces and lost their lives defending all they held dear. This beautiful yet solemn occasion underscores the great sacrifices such brave and dedicated individuals have made for their loved ones and their countries.
Each of us has a purpose in life, or dharma, a unique gift or special talent that we can give to the world. When we offer this talent in service to others, we experience pure joy and deep connection with spirit, which reminds us of who we truly are – one with all beings, united by pure Consciousness. Many individuals are called to the armed services because it is their dharma. From an early age, they have known that caring for the wellbeing for others by keeping them safe from threats of violence and loss of freedom is the path they were meant to pursue in this lifetime. With great devotion, these individuals answered the call of their hearts to serve and protect despite the grave dangers they faced.
In Dr. Deepak Chopra’s The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success, Dr. Chopra writes of the Law of Giving and Receiving, reminding us that the Universe operates through a dynamic, infinite flow of energy. In this way, giving and receiving are simply two sides of the same exchange. As we give selflessly and receive with open hearts, we keep the abundance of all of creation circulating in our lives and in the lives of everyone we touch.
When we think of being generous to one another in this effortless flow, it is likely that we seldom consider sacrificing our lives so that others may live in freedom. However, that is what our courageous women and men in uniform have done and continue to do. By dedicating their lives to protecting our nation, living their dharma, those in the armed forces provide us with safety and wellbeing through their selfless efforts, and we graciously receive the fruits of their commitment with abiding gratitude.
Remembering those who have served, fought, and died for their country is an important moment for all of us. As we pause today to honor those who have so valiantly given their lives so that we may experience all the joys life has to offer us, let us connect with their memories through the spirit of unity, pride, and unending gratitude.