I spotted a plane

So I turned up 2 mins late to my spin class and they gave my spot away. I wasn’t happy. I needed to run it off so I headed out of the gym to St James’ Park. My run became a walk. My walk became a stop. I am so pleased I missed that class.

I spotted one plane, then another, then trucks and tanks. Families picnicked, groups of school children wandered through the park, others on their lunch run. I walked on.

I had forgotten – V E DAY. Today 70 years ago – 8 May 1945 – World War II ended.

I felt embarrassed. I felt guilty. I hadnt even thought about it. I know so little about it.

I walked on. I read;

1.7million servicemen and women died in the 2 world wars

If all the men and women we remember could march side by side, 4 abreast, in a continuous line, it would take them more than 2 weeks of marching, night and day, to pass where you are standing

The line would stretch from London to Edinburgh – a distance of more than 400miles

I get  a knot in my stomach when thinking about the backdrop of St. James’ Park today, and the words from Man’s Search for Meaning by Victor E Frankl. I implore everyone to read this book. A deeply moving, profound work that could change your life.

I, the schoolchildren, the runners – the mother, father and child looking at that spitfire in the picture – how different would our lives be now if  it wasn’t for the 1.7million

#LestWeForget