This past Remembrance Sunday was a deeply poignant and personal milestone for me. I had the immense honour of attending alongside my partner, Jess, who serves in the military. For both of us, this day carries profound personal meaning. We each bring our own experiences, personal memories that have shaped who we are, to this moment of collective reflection.
Standing by Jess’s side (well, in her vicinity) reflecting on the sacrifices made by so many, past and present, was both humbling and heartwarming. My red poppy badge, adorned with the colors of the appropriate LGBTQ+ flag, became a symbol not only of remembrance but of who I am—a blend of respect for tradition and pride in the journey that brought me here.
Before this weekend, an encounter with a stranger left me shaken, but not deterred. This man, a stranger, chose to confront me over my poppy and my identity, calling me “woke” and accusing me of being a “disgrace.” For a moment, his words stung. Yet, as I reflected on them, I realised his reaction underscored why visibility and representation matter. We wear our symbols not to provoke but to remember, to honour, and, for some of us, to take courage in our truth while paying respects.
On Sunday, surrounded by others marking this solemn day, I stood tall (well as tall as I can, now that I am 3 inches shorter). In the quiet moments of remembrance, as the last post echoed, I felt pride—not just for those we remember, but for how far we’ve come and the courage to be ourselves. Being there with Jess, standing in solidarity, made clear that love and respect have no boundaries, and that remembrance is an inclusive, shared space for all.
For Jess and me, this day of reflection goes beyond tradition; it touches the core of our journeys. Remembrance is deeply personal, shaped by past experiences that continue to inform who we are today. It is a moment to honour those who have gone before us, while also standing true to ourselves and our shared values.
There is always more to do and more to understand. For anyone reading this who has felt judged for standing in their truth, I hope you know you are not alone. Remembrance, pride, respect—these are not contradictory values. They coexist powerfully, just as we all can in a world that honors the past while looking forward together.
In that solemn silence, I also remembered a life now lost, whilst in service to our former queen—a memory that will forever remain with me.