Remember

On Anzac Day people can sometimes be seen wearing sprigs of rosemary at Dawn or Afternoon Services at the local War Memorials. There are 2 main reasons for this. The first is that since ancient times, it has long been believed that rosemary has properties that will improve memory and as such has been associated with fidelity and remembrance. The second is that the plant grew wild over the Gallopili peninsula, a place where many Australian and New Zealand soldiers lost their lives in a botched campaign. The boat carrying the soldiers landed too far north in a barren and exposed area of beach, the solderiers were ambushed by Turkish troops up on steep cliffs surrounding the cove. In the 8 months the soldiers were fighting in Gallipoli, 11410 ANZACs lost their lives. As the great grandaughter of  a man who was sent to that hell and was fortunate enough to return, I personally feel that this plant is a fitting tribute to such a memory. Most people I know are able to conjure up some form of hidden memories from the slight scent of rosemary. It is also tough as old hog nails, thrives in full sun and if you give it a little love and care, it is a most rewarding plant to have in your garden.

I had a friend once tell me that they didnt like dawn service and the like as they thought that it glorified war. It kinda shook me as I would go to ANZAC services as a teenager, I occasionally go to a Dawn Service. I didnt realise some people thought that way. To anyone who believes this please understand, nobody celebrates the old lie of the glory of war. War is hell. We celebrate and remember the mateship and comradery between those who fought for our freedom. To remember and give pause for those who never got to come home. And to stand together in hope that peace will prevail. Lest we forget.