Interestingly, Facebook and various photo software applications have a feature which gives one memories of posts or photos from the past.
I’m sure that many of you have discovered, as have I, that ofttimes these are not only memories, but emotions as well.
Today, up popped some photos of a trip that Kim and I made to Ottawa in 2019. We were there to meet with Canada’s Governor General who presented me with the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers.
It was an honour to both meet the Governor General, and to receive the medal.
Today I was caused to reflect back on a number of things, one being my community involvement over the years, beginning in my youth.
I have been involved across Canada, wanting to serve the community. This was a valuable lesson learned from my parents as both Mum and Dad were very active throughout my growing up, regardless of how our family circumstances were.
I served, and continue to serve, to the benefit of the community, not to gain recognition. In doing so though, it seems I have been recognized on a number of occasions.
Today, while reflecting, I have decided to share with you, four of the recognitions which meant a great deal to me. I hope to talk about other aspects of community service in future blog posts or podcasts.
In June of 2002, I was inducted as a Serving Brother into the Most Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, known as the Order of St John. The presentation was done in the Alberta Legislature by The Honourable Lois E Hole, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.
In October of 2005, I was awarded the Alberta Centennial Medal by The Honourable Norman L Kwong, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.
In April 2019, I received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. The presentation was done at Rideau Hall in Ottawa by The Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada.
In January 2023, I received the Queen Elizabeth Platinum Jubilee Medal from Margaret Day, Kiwanis Western Canada District Division Six Lieutenant Governor.
I am honoured to receive these recognitions, however I am very proud of the community work that I, along with others, have done and the people we have helped in some way to make their lives better. That is the real reward.
Thanks for reading. Catch you next time.
Take care of yourself and look out for others.
Richard's Ramblings 