It's the 24th April and preparations for ANZAC Day are underway in this house. Biscuits made, medals laid out, rosemary sprigs cut for the local RSL and memories surfacing.
The mood changes here. It's quiet, almost uneasy, sometimes tense. Hard to explain really but it's different to other days.
This year we will be staying local.
We have travelled to Melbourne previously and experienced the 'big city' feel where hundreds line the streets as the march passes by and that same amount have been up since dawn attending services and ceremonies. We've then walked across to the MCG to experience a football game that has to be seen to be believed. The passion with which these teams play on the day is clearly evident.
What stays with me when I reflect on ANZAC Day is the silence of 80,000+ people as the last post is played. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it now.
Taking a moment to remember by yourself or with 80,000 others always stirs the emotion.
This year as I pause to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for this great country and those who have served I will also be thinking about those of us who are in the background supporting the injured when they return.
I will be thinking about those who have and who are walking the same path as me, living with an injured veteran.
I will be thinking about the sacrifices they make every single day to love and care for their loved one.
I will be thinking about who cares for them when they need support and understanding.
I will be thinking about the way life has changed for them in so many ways.
I will be thinking about the struggle and the painful times behind them and also ahead of them.
I will be thinking about how difficult ANZAC Day can be, often a time when the symptoms of PTSD and the memories seem to sweep our loved ones away again.
I will be thinking about the strength, courage and sheer hard, hard work it takes to be there for someone who is suffering so deeply.
I will be thinking about those of us who feel overwhelmed and helpless despite our best efforts at remaining calm and composed.
If that is you, know that I will be thinking about you tomorrow.
Mel x
