I'm sorry but you're absurd, and this is one of the most offensive things I've recently read.

November 11th is called "Remembrance Day" -- a day of remembering -- not debating the vast machine that is war. There are appropriate times for that type of discussion, and it's not on a day that's been set aside to remember and honour the courage and sacrifice of numerous soldiers.

It's so bloody trendy nowadays to be a malcontent and question everything and complicate matters to the point of redundancy, and past it even. Ridiculous. You should be ashamed of yourself.

It's articles like this that make a reader wonder if there are indeed any editors working on this newspaper. To allow a writer to air their ignorance on the pages of your newspaper shows horrendous judgement.

To Ms. Cole specifically, I will do my best to quickly illustrate how in the desire to create a provocative article, you've wandered completely around the point.

Remembrance Day is the day when we all should take time to not only thank the dwindling ranks of veterans for their efforts in WWI, WWII, Korean, Peacekeeping Missions and Afghanistan, but to also pay our respects to the horror of war. If the author is confused about how we recognize the destruction of war, then they need look no further than the faces of the veterans themselves. Watch those old men and woman when the Last Post or Piper's Lament is played and I defy you not to see the torment of war reflected in their eyes. Yes, the day is currently more about the soldiers than the wars themselves, but it's critical to understand that in 10 years, we won't have the soldiers anymore. These are our final chances to offer our thanks, listen to their stories and in doing so take advantage of the best chance we'll ever have to understand war, it's personal effects, social effects and long-lasting impact on both.

Furthermore, I would take specific exception with your statement that the ceremonies are more propaganda than proper salute. Firstly, one who's arguing against the substance of the entire day might be careful to judge what constitutes a "proper salute" and secondly, your entire article reads very much like the opinion of someone that's only watched these vital, somber memorials on television. Have you ever spoken with a veteran, male or female?

Before spitting on a vital part of our culture, the respect and remembrance of war and war veterans, you might take a moment and find out what exactly your against. This isn't merely an academic conversation.

In response to the comments above, I will pose this question: What "respects" are owed "to the horror of war?" These are to be deplored and hated, not respected. The sacrifice of conscripted soldiers notwhithstanding, the author of the article was rationalizing her own personal decision not to wear a poppy, which you've interpreted as "spitting on...our culture." Intolerance breeds hate, which is not a great leap from the evil of war.

In response to the comments above, I will pose this question: What "respects" are owed "to the horror of war?" These are to be deplored and hated, not respected. The sacrifice of conscripted soldiers notwhithstanding, the author of the article was rationalizing her own personal decision not to wear a poppy, which you've interpreted as "spitting on...our culture." Intolerance breeds hate, which is not a great leap from the evil of war.

Unfortunate that "ANON" chooses to acknowledge only one definition of respect. I have great respect for war and it's terrible ability to bring suffering and death as I have great respect for a shark's ability to eat me. Respect does not always equal acceptance, but it does always include understanding. Hate is fueled by ignorance, so we should therefore not hate war any more than we should hate gays. Only by understanding war can we prevent it and the best way to understand war is through our veterans. Having a day that focuses our attention on these noble men and women is a fine tool for educating the greater population. I contend that Ms. Cole made an ignorant decision in not wearing a poppy when offered. This showed a lack of respect (read: understanding) of the day and it's intent.

Unfortunate that "ANON" chooses to acknowledge only one definition of respect. I have great respect for war and it's terrible ability to bring suffering and death as I have great respect for a shark's ability to eat me. Respect does not always equal acceptance, but it does always include understanding. Hate is fueled by ignorance, so we should therefore not hate war any more than we should hate gays. Only by understanding war can we prevent it and the best way to understand war is through our veterans. Having a day that focuses our attention on these noble men and women is a fine tool for educating the greater population. I contend that Ms. Cole made an ignorant decision in not wearing a poppy when offered. This showed a lack of respect (read: understanding) of the day and it's intent.

Good for you Susan!

When I was in high school I wrote an essay on Remembrance Day. At the time, my "anti-establishment" friend asked me why I was glorifying war by writing an essay in commemoration of Remembrance Day. His criticisms became the topic of my essay. Without rehashing my entire essay, I'll just cut to the chase. I wrote about how Remembrance Day is a celebration of peace and the sacrifices made by ALL people so that we, in the West, can enjoy this peace and our own freedom. We can happily take peace for granted and write opinion pieces about how wearing a poppy is a form of fascism. Most people around the world do not have that luxury and the veterans especially didn't have it either. I won a lot of awards for that essay and I made some good money, but what sticks with me today and every November is that the veterans were so thankful and gracious because I remembered them with my words. I for one wear my poppy proudly and feel ashamed if I don't remember too or if it accidentally drops off my lapel. Ms. Cole seems to be echoing my friend's reservations. And as such she chooses not to wear a poppy and good for her; she has that right. But ultimately that poppy is a symbol of how we have that right.

I disagree with the main thrust of your point: that Remembrance Day glorifies the soldiers and doesn't reflect on the greater impacts on war, or who benefits. I was always taught that the impetus to "never forget" was to prevent future war. By reflecting on the loss and devastation of war, we are meant to remember that the war is a horrible enterprise that we must avoid whenever possible. We should only commit troops to war when all other avenues are exhausted.

As far as your statement that WW2 soldiers were largely conscripted, it should be pointed out that a lot of young Canadians men volunteered to go to war. Many of them had somewhat naive notions of the adventure they would encounter and others felt motivated to aid our allies Poland and Britain. As in WW1, when they returned home, many hoped it would be a war to end all wars, and campaigned to keep the memory of their comrades losses alive so that we Canadians would be cautious to avoid sending our troops into unnecessary conflicts.

I think it's important that you brought up the terrors inflicted on innocent civilians, from the horrific rapes of women to the mental illnesses that the soldiers acquire which fosters domestic violence, addictions and other social problems. However, this should not diminish the fact that occasions do rise when one nation initiates violence and aggression on another and in the case of WW2, we had to do something to help our allies in Europe since appeasing Hitler would not have resulted in long term peace or a free and civil society that Europe now enjoys.

Let us never forget the horrors of war, and the sacrifices made by soldiers everywhere. War is insane and yet there are times when there are no other options. I hope as I'm sure most people do that one day nations will not have the power to raise armies and wage wars. Surely there are devious and powerful elements in society who conspire to make and then profit from war. But that is not the fault of the soldiers who put their lives on the line to defend their country and allies.

I wish we were not at war now. I hope and pray that one day war will cease to exist. But even if that happens, we should never stop wearing our poppies. We should never forget how completely ugly war is or those soldiers and civilians who paid the ultimate sacrifice. So that we may see a day when wars are no longer fought on this planet. I hope. I remember.

Anon -- I am Croatian. I come from a country that was torn apart by a bloody civil war who's crimes against humanity can only be rivaled (in Europe) by WW2 concentration camps in respect to the atrocities put upon its citizens. As a child I watched daily as my home country was torn apart by the mad, the vengeful, and the bloodthirsty. I don't think anyone is maintaining you should pay respect to the bloody terror of war, but to the people -- justified or not -- who fought, and often died, for ideals (misguided or not) that represent a large part of who and what CANADA is.

What is this country without the souls who died to uphold our freedoms? Is it perfect? No. Is it necessary? It's beyond my ability to reason this question here and within these limited "comments" but the fact that warring has made and defined both humanity and the countries we owe citizenship too tells a lot more than any foolishly naive "war is bad" BS.

We're not just remembering to pay respect to them -- but to realize the horror and depravity and senseless loss that is inherent in ALL war. The author of this article glosses over that that point in exchange for her horribly misguided "beliefs."

This has got to be one of the most offensive and infuriating things I have ever had the misfortune of reading in NOW. Cole obviously has next to no knowledge about either world war; for example not all soldiers were conscripted. My great grandfather, a poor Irish immigrant fought at Ypres and Paschaendale, where he lost half of his hand. He signed up at 22 and sent the money home to his wife and 4 young boys. He served again in WWII along with 3 of his sons who served in the army, airforce and navy respectively. Luckily they all came back, but not all families were so fortunate. As a young Canadian it makes me profoundly sad that the ignorance espoused by Cole in this article may outlive the last of our brave veterans who, ironically enough, fought for her right to have articles like this published. I hope in the future Ms. Cole shows a little more respect.

Hey Susan, I used to think like you so I can empathize. I must tell you though that I've come to see why I need to wear a poppy now. I know that the debate about war is passionate and complex. I myself will always be a pacifist, in that debate. But as passionate about that as I am, war is still our human condition, and our soldiers are our fellow citizens. One is my nephew. Some have died. Think of their families too. The moment of silence, and the poppy, are beyond debates about war. Remembrance of these human struggles, their cost, and the young soldiers, is not a glorification of war, far from it. It's a shared moment of humility. Putting one's positions aside and sharing a basic respect for others and for the country. Thank you for considering this Susan.

i feel that this is a complex issue. as a buddhist, i made a commitment to the liberation of ALL sentient beings. not just a few. it is vitally important to remember and mourn for those who gave their lives during wartime. it is equally important to acknowledge that war is a devastating, destructive force, with far reaching implications. are there any real "winners" in war? i don't know.

but i remember and send my love and energy and compassion to all, ALL beings in the world that suffer and die, every single day, without exception.

and i do that regardless of whether or not i choose to wear a poppy on november 11.

Love that you are about the most empty-headed "journalist" I have ever come across.

Of which military are you speaking, in regards to the machismo and anti-gay?

Stop watching Hollywood films. The Canadian Forces are not the American military. I come by this knowledge first-hand.

And being that you so like to bash this "respect for the soldiers" vs the human cost of wars...who decides on when wars are fought? According to your empty-headed theory, it MUST be the soldiers.

Try foreign policy. Soldiers are simply an extension of this. At least in the Western world they are. The fact that you have such a disrespect for this day...and wrote about it...just disgusts me.

And it shows just how out of touch with the way of the world you are.

This is yet another positive reinforcement for my old WO's argument for a mandatory CF service for all able bodied young people. It DOES give you a greater understanding of the way of the world, one which you obviously lack. And I think he was on to something.

"make the term gay soldier an oxymoron"

Since 1993, it has been legal to be openly gay in the Canadian military. During my own time of service I knew two openly gay men in uniform.

Ms. Cole's qualms about Remembrance Day and poppy-wearing do not peg her as some freak - lots of people have struggled with this. In Britain it can be traced back to at least 1926 when the No More War Movement challenged the Haig Fund to print "No More War" in the centre of the poppies (they didn't). In 1933 the Co-operative Women's Guild came up with the white poppy to symbolize peace and as a way of decoupling Remembrance Day from military culture.

The white poppy has endured to this day. In Ottawa this year the group "White Poppy Collective" held an alternative Remembrance Day ceremony with the laying of a white poppy wreath. Said a spokesman, Ian Harvey, "If you are really looking out for the best for human beings, you want to vow to work for more peace and figure out ways to avoid more wars. That's how you honor veterans."

The irony is that Canadian veterans fought for Susan Cole's freedom to write any vile, uninformed, opinionated nonsense she wants. They also fought for her right to not wear a poppy. In fact, I suspect many of the more that 100,000 brave soldiers that lost their lives wouldn't want someone of her weak, misguided morale character wearing one.

What she fails to understand is that we don't speak of the horrors of war on Remembrance Day because it is engrained deep in the psyche of all of the veterans gathered there on that day. The crowds that gather are well aware of what if must have taken for these men and women to overcome their deepest fears and move past the nightmares of combat on that scale. We gather in silence, not mentioning these horrors but instead paying tribute to the courage it took to overcome them. We remember the good that was done, the Christmas meals shared with enemy soldiers, the liberation of millions of Europeans, the end of war and the coming home of our loved ones. This is why we wear a poppy with pride and our chins held high.

If you don't want to wear the poppy because the day has been ruined for you by people who used it to glorify war, that's fine.

The white ribbon has been ruined for me because of people who did nothing but talk about the montreal massacre.

What's important is understanding what the underlying symbol SHOULD mean.

As far as I can tell, the poppy is supposed to represent rememberence of what happened during the war so we don't hastily enter into another one. It's to remember those who fought, whether they wanted to or not, in horrific battles to protect the free country you live in today.

Whether you support war or not is irrelevant here. It's about the people who made the sacrifices...

The poppy itself isn't important

Ms. Cole states: "Our World War II soldiers were conscripted – they had no choice but to fight – and the young men who made the so-called ultimate sacrifice had no control over whether they would go and where they would do battle. "

Of the 1.1 million Canadians who served in the armed forces in the Second World War, the vast majority volunteered for overseas duty. The use of conscripts for overseas service actually began late in 1944. Some 13,000 NRMA (National Resources Mobilization Act) men eventually left Canada, but only 2,463 reached units in the field before the end of the fighting. 69 died in battle.

"As a jewish woman, I'm grateful that Hitler was defeated." Isn't that statement enough to justify wearing a poppy? Without those soldiers, there would be no defeat, and you probably would have never been born to write this shameful article.

I'm about as anti-war as you can get, however I see no point in punishing or disrespecting people like my grandfather who selflessly put his life on the line so monsters like Hitler and their ideology's would be defeated. Or what about the soldier who is in Afghanistan who joined the military because they couldn't afford a college education, who is only trying to make the world a better place and make a better life for themselves.

I'm guessing you are the type of person who enters a business and complains and berates the low level staff and hold them accountable for the decisions and policies of the people actually in charge. It's ignorant and a waste of everyone's time.

We should be holding our leaders accountable for unjust war, not the soldiers.

"As a Jewish woman" you have much to be thankful for. That these young men would have their time on earth snuffed out in the prime of their youth to protect people like you.

Those that are not willing to live by the sword, die on the sword.

Wow... wearing a poppy is a sign of respect. NOW magazine has reached a new low. You might as well spit of the graves of those that gave their lives so you can have the privilage of writing whatever you want in a newspaper.

The day is about REMEMBERING THEM.

It's not about you.

It's not about social BS.

It's about them and their sacrifice.

If you want to write anything in the future? I strongly suggest a simple "THANK YOU".

The rest of your blathering screed is Socialist Propaganda.

Three small yet very significant words: "Lest we forget"

"As a Jewish woman" you have much to be thankful for. That these young men would have their time on earth snuffed out in the prime of their youth to protect people like you.

Those that are not willing to live by the sword, die on the sword.

There is only one way to describe your perfect world Susan.

Conquered.

There is only one way to describe your perfect world Susan.

Conquered.

As a jewish woman, you would have died in a gas chamber and had your body burned in a giant oven after slaving for years for hitler's military machine had not those brave young men come and beat Hitler's army with military force. Hitler was crazy and he was the supreme commander of a huge military machine. They tried negotiating, they tried placating, the only thing left to do to stop a mad man from controlling all of europe and eventually north america was to fight. You are an ignorant Canadian and I only wish that you could have lived in an occupied country to know what those men fought and died to save.

Wow, Now Magazine never fails to disgust.

Considering your sexual orientation Susan you'd do well to remember the very soldiers that died to allow you to live the way you want. Hitler would have gassed you. With sick commie views like yours perhaps that would not have been so bad.

BTW - Remembrance day is all about remembering the sacrifices made by our fine men and women, not about you. You are pathetic.

I wonder what other traditions this person will trash. I'm referring to Cole. Honouring the sacrifice many people made on one single day isn't a lot to ask. If you were a true Canadian, you would do it for that reason at least. Take your opinion and get stuffed. I think you have too much time on your hands and just want to start shit. People like you make me sick.

Ms. Cole, You are an entertainment editor, not a journalist who knows anything about politics or why you should wear that poppy. This ceremony is not a celebration, nor is it a glorification of the military, it is a solemn rememberance and a show of respect and gratitude to those who gave their lives so that you would have the freedom to be a woe-is-me Jewish Woman and write such idiotic uninformed fecal matter. Innocent civilians and Germans also gave their lives as well. My Maternal Grandmother was a German woman, a "Politika Heflinger" (Conscientious Objector)who died at Ravensbrook (a concentration camp for women and children) because she was an anti-hitler civilian living in Germany ( yes not all Germans were duped by Hilter). War is suffering and abuse of all women and men and wearing the Poppy shows you not only object to these atrocities, you remember the brave men AND women who gave their lives so that you could be around today to write this drivel. As they teach in creative writing classes, you should write about what you know. Please Ms. Cole, stick to being a entertainment editor and leave your tabloid opinions out of print, where they truly belong.

Probably the most vacuous, offensive and self-centred piece that I have ever read in a Canadian publication.

i personally think u have some deep issues... WAR HAS NO CHOICE ..IT JUST HAS TO BE DONE TO KEEP THE PEACE .. SO YOU SHOULD JUST SHUT UP ..GO SEE A DOCTOR ..CAUSE IF YOU CANNOT BE GRATEFULL FOR WHAT THE SOLDIERS DID ..AND ALL THEIR SACRIFICES... AND ALL YOU CAN THINK UP OF ..IS ALL THAT CRAP YOU JUST BLURBED...THAN YOU HAVE SERIOUS ISSUES AND SHOULD BE REMOVED ..TIL YOU STOP TALKING LIKE AN IDIOT ..AND START MAKING ANY SENSE....

AND NEVER WRITE THIS CRAP AGAIN...NEXT TIME JUST SHUT UR WHINING MOUTH OH ME OH ME ..AND JUST BE THANK FULL.. AS A MATTER OF FACT..WE ALL DESERVE AN APOLOGY LETTER...AND I WANT IT NOW!!!!!!!!!!!

Pull your head out of your rump sweetie, the lack of breathable air is obviously affecting your ability to create a rational thought. Or could it be that you're so caught up in your own angst and need, to be accepted by the useless leftist fools you hang out with, you'll say or write anything including this crap, to be accepted. I've had relatives who went over to Europe to fight for your right to be an ignorant fool, perhaps they should have taken the same attitude as you. then i wouldn't have had to read this tripe.

It wasn't Veterans Day; it was Remembrance Day.

We're not in the United States, and this isn't the 1960s, either. Counter-culture is so passe. Not wearing a poppy is like burning your bra, not wearing a tie, not going to the prom, or some other empty symbolic gesture that I'm too young to remember. Get with the times, friend. There's power in conformity.

The poppy is a quiet symbol that many groups have appropriated, regardless of their politics. Why not just make Remembrance Day a reflection on the pity of war, and make the poppy your own?

I grant you that it is an odd phrase..."they fought and died for our freedom" It depends on how you look at it. Quite frankly, my kind would be relatively free even if Hitler controlled Europe (as he had no plans to dominate North America). It is arguably your people that Canadians fought for (whether they saw it that way or not).

I'm glad you're 'grateful' that Hitler was defeated. My grandfather thought that was pretty swell too.

I'm sorry to pull the 'my granddad' bit, but I think it is relevant, because he. He fought to liberate Holland from the Nazis, and suffered a near-deadly wound from a grenade that was thrown into his tank. He soon after became a gun-renouncing civilian who did not associate with Legion buddies and reminisce--possibly because he did not want to remember the horror he witnessed. He observed Remembrance Day, but I think he wished he could forget.

If nothing else, use the poppy as a symbol that you sympathize with those who have no choice but to remember the physical pain of war. Maybe the day should be about them, and not about your stale, painfully predictable views.

Oh, and by the way...I like how you managed to insert the gays in the military bit. I know how important that cause is for you. Again, a real fresh topic. But don't worry...there will be plenty of gays in the military soon...but if the unspeakable happens to them, would you not wear a poppy to honour them?

Probably the most vacuous, offensive and self-centred piece that I have ever read in a Canadian publication.

Being an activist in the sixties was fun. My cohorts and I knew how to make the perfect world. Only "the establishment" stood in the way of our Emerald City. Later, as did most of my generation , I grew up. The weird "illusion filter" that lefties seem to have--the filter that temporarily blinds people to reality-- switched off. Then came revelations, among other things, I saw that some people are evil, and that some cultures aren't as humane as ours, and people can be taken over by mass psychology. And people can murder other people--sometimes lots of other people. And holding their hands and singing to them will only antagonize them even more. In brief, Ms Cole, those who beat their swords into plowshares will be enslaved by those who keep their swords. Violence is horrible, illogical, and brutal, but it's an inescapable element of human nature. Don't you respect the "war machine" that can provide well-equipped volunteer soldiers to protect little Afgan schoolgirls from savages? If someone is ready to harm you, do you dial 911 and insist that they send a police officer without a gun?

Susan, there are some Canadians who embarass me. You, with this selfish, misinformed, sophomoric, insulting, and disgusting piece, are one of them. You owe many, many people an apology. In print. Followed by your resignation.

You're a stupid git!

I cannot believe your editor let you publish this article. You have completely ignored what Rememberence Day represents.

No, the majority of soldiers weren't conscripted. Quite the contrary in fact, Canada was remarkable in that virtually everyone in uniform was a volunteer. Conscription came into effect only near the end of the war, and many of them barely made it through training with only less than 2500 ever seeing the front lines. There is every other day of the year to discuss the horrors of war, and if anything, Remembrance Day is the one day a year we can take to say thank you to all those who have sacrificed so much. As for your comments about homosexuality, you clearly have no idea of what you're talking about as the Canadian Forces treats everyone equally. In fact, there have been gay marriages conducted between active soldiers on military bases presided over by military padres. If you're going to write something, do a little fact checking first. In fact, I believe fact checking would be considered a basic fundamental of any type of professional writing.

Anyways, if you don't want to wear a poppy, don't. After all, you'd only be defiling it if you did.

Wow this article is beyond trash. Our armies in BOTH world wars were volunteer armies, not conscript armies. Those men signed up because they believed in the cause they fought for. Remembrance day has little do to with glorifying wars, I think the pained faces of the Veterans during the last post says all that needs to be said about the horrors of war.

I personally hope you are not the emerging anti-war face in society that goes so far as to reject the sacrifices of the veterans. It will truly be a sad day if your view becomes commonly held.

Wear a white poppy if you want to rage against the military machine.

Such a clever article, Like the saying goes "A fool who keeps silent is counted among the wise"

shanda fur die goyim

Well said and your are not alone. I have never experienced armed conflict in any way, shape or form, but both my parents, in-laws, and grandparents were in Europe during WWII and suffered greatly at the hands of Nazis,especially the SS. My Father also inflicted destruction on those same troops while in the Underground. Not one of my family members ever wore a poppy (even during their last 50 years in Canada)despite their personal loss of families, friends, and fellow soldiers. I once asked my Dad why he didn't wear one - he never really answered me but I came to understand that the symbolism (poppy)means little to those who had to endure, or inflict hate especially when its in one's own backyard. We all agree on what we want the poppy to symbolise, but if truly understood its rooted meaning we would never display one, especially not over our hearts. Skip the poppy...take a Veteran or War Victim out to lunch instead and just listen.

I'm at student in Social Work. I find your actions offensive and are exactly what's fueling the closed-mindedness that exists in our society. It's a self-serving mentality you displayed. You should be ashamed of yourself. If only I had your email, nor will I look and give you the attention you crave from this fiasco. If we're talking about women, why not mention children of war? Livestock of war that stave to death? Contamination from our mutations? A quote I remember, "Human history is the sad result of each one looking out for himself." Our history is marked with wars based on the same attitude you have. You're a hypocrite. Why you're allowed to stay on radio is beyond me. Shame.

Our World War II soldiers were conscripted – they had no choice but to fight – and the young men who made the so-called ultimate sacrifice had no control over whether they would go and where they would do battle.

FFS Susan... we knew you avoided facts you disagreed with, but do you completely avoid learning?

Canadian boys VOLUNTEERED, and chose which branch of the military in which they wanted to enlist.

"As it is, I felt like, if I put on that poppy, I was saying yes to the military establishment...(snip) yes to the assumption that war is a necessary strategy for resolving conflict."

They died so you can write your garbage.

Then how can you claim to be against rape? You must believe "if you lie still and don't resist it isn't rape".

Would love to read what twisted nonsense you come up with on Sharon Gregson.

Susan, its very likely you would not even exist today had it not been for the solders in WW2 who gave up everything they had to stop a madman who was bent on eliminating your people! What more do you need to consider? Put a poppy on before its too late to redeem yourself.

Well done Susan - this is easily the most offensive drivel I've read all year.

As antidote to your obvious dementia, you might grab a beer at your local Legion to test your bent logic - it'll come correct before you've tipped the bartender.

Well done Susan - this is easily the most offensive drivel I've read all year.

As antidote to your obvious dementia, you might grab a beer at your local Legion to test your bent logic - it'll come correct before you've tipped the bartender.

Well done Susan - this is easily the most offensive drivel I've read all year.

As antidote to your obvious dementia, you might grab a beer at your local Legion to test your bent logic - it'll come correct before you've tipped the bartender.

Well done Susan - this is easily the most offensive drivel I've read all year.

As antidote to your obvious dementia, you might grab a beer at your local Legion to test your bent logic - it'll come correct before you've tipped the bartender.

"I will come to a time in my backwards trip when November eleventh, accidentally my birthday, was a sacred day called Armistice Day. When I was a boy, and when Dwayne Hoover was a boy, all the people of all the nations which had fought in the First World War were silent during the eleventh minute of the eleventh hour of Armistice Day, which was the eleventh day of the eleventh month.

It was during that minute in nineteen hundred and eighteen that millions upon millions of human beings stopped butchering one another. I have talked to old men who were on the battlefields during that minute. They have told me in one way or another that the sudden silence was the Voice of God. So we still have among us some men who can remember when God spoke clearly to mankind."

Kurt Vonnegut, 1973.

November 11 has become a day when people don't think about the military industrial complex or the barbaric wars that have been fought (needlessly, imperially, oppressively, unjustly) around the world since WW2.

I don't indiscriminately support all wars, or all war veterans. Even some of the people who died in the first and second World Wars were not heroes to be honoured, but war criminals whose crimes ought to be made public and condemned.

I do not wear a poppy, ever. If I did the proper research, I could tell you, name by name which veterans I would feel deserved my support and honour. But I have not done that research, and so do not indiscriminately support or condemn any veterans that have fought in wars throughout history.

Use your heads people. Propaganda is everywhere. Capitalists are just as capable of producing and distributing national lies as Socialists. And their objectives are truly just the same.

Drivel indeed. So tired of this soul-searching drivel. No one is asking you to approve of war here. Remember those who gave your lives so that you could soul-search in a newspaper without fear that you will be tracked down by the thought police. I hope the women of Afghanistan will be able to put their own suffering in perspective, after all the Canadians have long abandoned them because of moral equivocating forced a pull-out. Chicken shit logic.

Dear Susan Coles, You are a joke. A big laughable joke. You are not clever, you are not deep, you are not an intellectual (in any form). You are misguided, uninformed and plain WRONG. You write for a left wing, free newspaper that sells sex ads in order to stay in business. You need to shut your pie-hole (if that's even possible???) and show a little respect for the men and woman who gave their lives to ensure your incredibly worthless one, would exist. You make me sick to my stomach. I will never read NOW again, until you are dismissed.

Holy crap finally I see some comments on these stories. Although some of them read like religious extremist insanity, at least people are talking eh?

After Lynch's stunt I wrote this: After watching the ceremonies I started wondering how long will it be before the CHRC decides the whole Day is discriminatory. If you apply their standards point by point it is a gross violation of human rights. A bunch of old predominantly white guys with Christian music reminding the world to be on guard for foreign cultures that might challenge our own. The powerful messages could even cause some Canadians to hate these foreign ideas and fight to the death against them. How un-Canadian. How intolerant. In fighting these ideas we would be contemptuous of the people propagating them. I think the CHRC would prefer to change the Day to one of inclusion, decrying our acts of violence, accepting these political policies as natural human rights and apologize for ever having refuted them. And now I read it has started. How disgusting. I would ask this idiot what she intends to do if foreign soldiers, (who don't know how to play nice in the sandbox), ever invaded her country & home. Who would she yell help, rape to?

After Lynch's stunt I wrote this: After watching the ceremonies I started wondering how long will it be before the CHRC decides the whole Day is discriminatory. If you apply their standards point by point it is a gross violation of human rights. A bunch of old predominantly white guys with Christian music reminding the world to be on guard for foreign cultures that might challenge our own. The powerful messages could even cause some Canadians to hate these foreign ideas and fight to the death against them. How un-Canadian. How intolerant. In fighting these ideas we would be contemptuous of the people propagating them. I think the CHRC would prefer to change the Day to one of inclusion, decrying our acts of violence, accepting these political policies as natural human rights and apologize for ever having refuted them. And now I read it has started. How disgusting. I would ask this idiot what she intends to do if foreign soldiers, (who don't know how to play nice in the sandbox), ever invaded her country & home. Who would she yell help, rape to?

This is some of the most offensive whiny clap-trap I have ever had the misfortune to read. How can you be such an ingrate? Get out of the Queen St W coffee houses where the other self-proclaimed "intelligentsia" congregate and meet some real people (maybe even some veterans!) and thank them for allowing you to lead such a self-obsessed, selfish, pretentious life.

This is some of the most offensive whiny clap-trap I have ever had the misfortune to read. How can you be such an ingrate? Get out of the Queen St W coffee houses where the other self-proclaimed "intelligentsia" congregate and meet some real people (maybe even some veterans!) and thank them for allowing you to lead such a self-obsessed, selfish, pretentious life.

I can't add much to the very passionate comments left here over the past few days.I can only add this.One day, take a trip to France and stand at the foot of the Vimy Ridge memorial at dawn.Watch as the sun rises to illuminate the huge statute of Canada, as a a grieving mother, weeping for her sons and daughters.

If you can stand there and not feel overwhelmed by emotion, and not reflect on what it means to be a free citizen of Canada and the world, then by all means never again wear a poppy for as long as you live.

I can't add much to the very passionate comments left here over the past few days.I can only add this.One day, take a trip to France and stand at the foot of the Vimy Ridge memorial at dawn.Watch as the sun rises to illuminate the huge statute of Canada, as a a grieving mother, weeping for her sons and daughters.

If you can stand there and not feel overwhelmed by emotion, and not reflect on what it means to be a free citizen of Canada and the world, then by all means never again wear a poppy for as long as you live.

laura, you're right. propaganda is everywhere, including every sentence of your post.

What is this woman smoking anyway. Shhh!

World War I was a turning point. It changed people's attitudes towards war. Instead of a glorious adventure, people began to understand that war could at times be a meaningless and futile slaughter, and should never be entered into lightly.

Remembrance Day came out of that. It neither condemns nor glorifies war, but insists that we never forget its costs. It acts as a warning to our political leaders that the blood of our soldiers must only be shed for reasons worthy of the price.

That's why I wear a poppy. I want our leaders to fully understand where my priorities lie.

I entirely believe that peace and establishing a societal base in which war is not glorified is key to a world in which we no longer kill each other in the name of God or power.

But, I am, in all seriousness, absolutely appalled by your utter disregard for the sacrifices that people have made - willingly or not - to make sure that you have a comfortable life.

Canadians are absolutely not about promoting machismo or the war machine. If you want that mentality, head down South and live in America for a while.

Until then, feel free to leave your poppy on the table. That's what those men who you so ungratefully snub allowed you the right to do.

My father, along with most of the men in western Canada, volunteered for the army. He was in Europe from '39 to the end of '45.

I am the youngest of his 6 children, he was a great father. We all gathered and watched him die in '88 - the doctor said the damage to his heart had been done decades ago -probably when he was in Europe when he had malaria and hepatitis in Italy. I was 22 when he died. He never regretted what he had to do in the war, even though it put him into a premature grave.

Your empty non-gesture is indicative of a discredited and bankrupt world view of moral relativism. Pacifism and empty, weak protests that the self indulgent, pampered toronto feminists revel in did not end Nazi rule, did not end slavery in the USA or the slave trade and it will not lead to the end of the oppression of women in Afganistan.

The true defenders of womens' rights and human rights have in the past and are today wearing the uniforms of the armies of the western free countries.

Some advice: grow up, open your eyes to the world outside of Canada (maybe even venture forth from the shire of the '416' area code)and you may begin to understand what Nov. 11th is about.

World War I was a turning point. It changed people's attitudes towards war. Instead of a glorious adventure, people began to understand that war could at times be a meaningless and futile slaughter, and should never be entered into lightly.

Remembrance Day came out of that. It neither condemns nor glorifies war, but insists that we never forget its costs. It acts as a warning to our political leaders that the blood of our soldiers must only be shed for reasons worthy of the price.

That's why I wear a poppy. I want our leaders to fully understand where my priorities lie.

Does anyone know what the opposite term of collateral damage is? Looking for the term to describe something useless that survives while protecting something worth protecting? Perhaps it should be renamed to Susan Coles? People gave their lives to protect your right to spew this trash. Funny thing is, those who our boys were fighting, had they won, would NOT have let you write, let alone let you live. I cannot believe what utter trash and tripe your magazine allows you to publish. I know that if I run across anyone who reads NOW, I will quote you and do my best to send your circulation downward, although I doubt you need my help doing that. Try standing outdoors in Winnipeg on a cold winter day at a service (I know, I know, going to one is like supporting defence contractors), shivering and thinking what it must have been like on a frigid day, under fire, in a foxhole, bodies of your comrades around you, wondering if you will live, let alone ever warm up. Hoping that you survive, hoping that your side beats the evil monster running the other side, hoping you can go home and see your loved ones and never knowing there are such IGNORANT, UNAPPRECIATIVE DOLTS that try to pass themselves off as human beings. Unbelievable. Too bad the right to free speech does not include the responsibility to think rationally........

Obviously the writer of the article missed the point of Nov 11 - why belabour the obvious repeatedly. I do take offence at her broad statements which are a reflection standard Jewish liberal intellectual nonsense. Specifically, blaming people who stopped a madman through the use of violence.

The big question for the author is who will stand up to the madmen and crazies in our world. If not us who else?

If god forbid we end up with more Jewish thinkers like this fine example who are influencing our society we will likely end up as a society of Chamberlins.

ps. I'm part Jewish so the politically correct police can stop nashing their teeth and tearing their hair out at my references to Jewishness liberalism.

the eleventh minute of the eleventh hour of the eleventh day; the day is centred around the moment when people believed war had ended; this is the centre-piece of remembrance day; and you cannot partake because of your precious identity politics; do you ever tire of being a cliche?

Does anyone know what the opposite term of collateral damage is? Looking for the term to describe something useless that survives while protecting something worth protecting? Perhaps it should be renamed to Susan Coles? People gave their lives to protect your right to spew this trash. Funny thing is, those who our boys were fighting, had they won, would NOT have let you write, let alone let you live. I cannot believe what utter trash and tripe your magazine allows you to publish. I know that if I run across anyone who reads NOW, I will quote you and do my best to send your circulation downward, although I doubt you need my help doing that. Try standing outdoors in Winnipeg on a cold winter day at a service (I know, I know, going to one is like supporting defence contractors), shivering and thinking what it must have been like on a frigid day, under fire, in a foxhole, bodies of your comrades around you, wondering if you will live, let alone ever warm up. Hoping that you survive, hoping that your side beats the evil monster running the other side, hoping you can go home and see your loved ones and never knowing there are such IGNORANT, UNAPPRECIATIVE DOLTS that try to pass themselves off as human beings. Unbelievable. Too bad the right to free speech does not include the responsibility to think rationally........

It would seem, from your article, that Now magazine is the first Canadian print publication to have an official Troll-In-Chief.

I'm sure it helps create controversy and buzz. Now talk amongst yourselves.

Susan you really disgust me. You've offended a lot of people with your thoughtless article. You need to apologize to everyone that has been exposed to this tripe. Remember that you are a journalist and acquire a brain to mouth filter.

Lest we forget, with few exceptions our soldiers are asked to enforce political will often in foreign lands. Sometimes that can be noble, and sometimes it isn't. Canada has certainly forgotten the horrors of war as we feel quite free to send our troops anywhere, and civilians are paying the price. Perhaps those far away victims will have their own special day, lest they forget... as for the article, good point. Most people who wear a poppy do not think about their own support for war and terror, or if they do they are hypocritical.

As for most of the posts below it, you should read more history, from more sources then think about how much 'freedom' was actually being protected.

I bet Susan you fogot to thanks those vets who gave their lives so you could have the freedom to make such a useless statement.

In any given year, there are 364 days in which citizens can voice their political opinions. I don't think it's unfair that the soldiers who gave their life for our country be granted 1 single day of sombre remembrance in their honour, free of politicization. Ms. Cole should be appropriately ashamed of her remarks, and offer a public retraction. We all make mistakes and hopefully she will see hers.

I'm also curious to know how she feels about the countless Afghan women that endured rape and unbearable repression under the Taliban, and who are now attending schools and living with greater equality thanks to the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform.

In any given year, there are 364 days in which citizens can voice their political opinions. I don't think it's unfair that the soldiers who gave their life for our country be granted 1 single day of sombre remembrance in their honour, free of politicization. Ms. Cole should be appropriately ashamed of her remarks, and offer a public retraction. We all make mistakes and hopefully she will see hers.

I'm also curious to know how she feels about the countless Afghan women that endured rape and unbearable repression under the Taliban, and who are now attending schools and living with greater equality thanks to the sacrifices of our brave men and women in uniform.

Hey Shawn, I completely agree that "in any given year, there are 364 days in which citizens can voice their political opinions" but think it's too bad nobody bothers to engage politically about what our soldiers are doingin our name overseas.

As for fighting for our freedoms at home, they were not threatened at all in WW1. That was case of aggressive posturing that lead to a single incident starting a war. With the exception of WW2, there have been no threats to our freedom.

Overthrowing Haiti's government was a threat to THEIR freedom. So was assisting the US in Vietman an action against the citizens of that nation. We are often on the wrong side of the ideals we so freely celebrate.

I am a teacher and I decided to stop wearing poppies years ago. Most teachers with the board wear them and so the pro-respect, pro-veteran, pro-war as a necessary evil view points were out there. I was representing the idea that you can choose not to wear a poppy if you don't want to. Many of your fellow talking-heads (meant in the best possible way) were seen wearing poppies. And frankly, until you mentioned it, it wouldn't have been apparent that you were declining - some might have thought you wore it on your outer apparel. In a school there's a poppy box clearly visible. You could easily replace the one that had fallen off. But to have someone come up to you and expect you to pin it on - that's almost a premise for an episode of The Newsroom.

Hey Shawn, I completely agree that "in any given year, there are 364 days in which citizens can voice their political opinions" but think it's too bad nobody bothers to engage politically about what our soldiers are doingin our name overseas.

As for fighting for our freedoms at home, they were not threatened at all in WW1. That was case of aggressive posturing that lead to a single incident starting a war. With the exception of WW2, there have been no threats to our freedom.

Overthrowing Haiti's government was a threat to THEIR freedom. So was assisting the US in Vietman an action against the citizens of that nation. We are often on the wrong side of the ideals we so freely celebrate.

Patriot, I share your disdain for violence committed in the name of "freedom." In some cases military intervention is necessary, but in many other cases it's not. However, that issue has nothing to do with our need to bestow honour on soldiers that gave their lives taking orders from politicians WE elected to rule over them. It IS too bad that too few people engage in appropriate debate about our overseas action, but the memory of our men and women shouldn't suffer for our democratic ineptitude. Remembrance Day should be apolitical.

Susan G. Coles is no stranger to `controversy' - that is, moral idiocy.

Coles was one of the only writers, as I recall, who stood up for Karla Homolka, who conspired with Paul Bernardo not only to murder two young women, but also her own sister!

Which is to say, Coles, the ultra-feminist, was standing up for the rapist and killer of three girls (god knows what else Homolka and Bernardo got up to before they were finally apprended)!

This comes from a writer who, in turn, believes that censorsing so-called pornography will be a great leap in the liberation of womankind (see her `The Sex Crisis', from early 1990s).

Now, of course, she refuses to wear a poppy; well, Ms. Coles, it's called: `freedom'. I'm personally glad that she has the freedom not to wear a poppy; that's what veterans fought for.

Perhaps now you'll understand that `liberation' will not come from banning anything.

Patriot - *Overthrowing Haiti's government was a threat to THEIR freedom. So was assisting the US in Vietman an action against the citizens of that nation. We are often on the wrong side of the ideals we so freely celebrate.*

Which overthrow, when the U.S. installed Aristide? Yes, I'll agree that this denegrated Haitians' freedom.

As for Vietnam, yes, after the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the Vietnamese were `free' to be sent to `re-education' (ie. concentration) camps, and `free' to set out on the high seas, in order for many of them to starve and die (remember the `Boat People'?).

Patriot - *Overthrowing Haiti's government was a threat to THEIR freedom. So was assisting the US in Vietman an action against the citizens of that nation. We are often on the wrong side of the ideals we so freely celebrate.*

Which overthrow, when the U.S. installed Aristide? Yes, I'll agree that this denegrated Haitians' freedom.

As for Vietnam, yes, after the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the Vietnamese were `free' to be sent to `re-education' (ie. concentration) camps, and `free' to set out on the high seas, in order for many of them to starve and die (remember the `Boat People'?).

You are absolutely fucked in the head and this is one of the most offensive point of views I have ever seen. But what else do you expect from now magazine. You should be totally ashamed of yourself. Stick your self righteous opinion up your ass.

Patriot - *Overthrowing Haiti's government was a threat to THEIR freedom. So was assisting the US in Vietman an action against the citizens of that nation. We are often on the wrong side of the ideals we so freely celebrate.*

Which overthrow, when the U.S. installed Aristide? Yes, I'll agree that this denegrated Haitians' freedom.

As for Vietnam, yes, after the withdrawal of U.S. troops, the Vietnamese were `free' to be sent to `re-education' (ie. concentration) camps, and `free' to set out on the high seas, in order for many of them to starve and die (remember the `Boat People'?).

If it wasn't for the men and women who have fought to ensure our freedoms and Democratic privelages, Liberal, Queer, Femenists like you would still be in the closet frightened to leave your house...has anyone ever told you that you look like Simon Cowell in Drag,

Has any one else pointed out that in WWII Canada had a almost solely volunteer army? Conscription was instituted after a national plebiscite in 1942 in which 63% of the population, men and women, voted in favour. In the end only 2463 men who were conscripted reached units on the front lines. Out of these, 79 lost their lives. Very good of you Ms. Cole to speak up for those 79 poor souls, but it is rather an affront to the 45,284 others who died volunteers. All of Canada's current soldiers are also volunteers, and it is they, drawn from all parts of Canadian society--gay, straight, make, female, urban and rural--who define the culture you so off-handedly and presumably without evidence define as some sort of horrific machismo.

And have you not listened to the words of "In Flander's Fields"? How can your heart not brim with sadness at the horror of loss and death portrayed in McCrae's evocative lyrics? Every Remembrance day event I have been at has spoken to me not of exultation but of loss and thanks for sacrifice.

In general I am repulsed by your so-called defence above, in the first instance because it is based on your seemingly boundless ignorance of Canada's history (which, despite what you appear to think is not the same as that of the US). If you are going to take a public platform platform to try to defend your cruel and petty action as some sort of virtue, at least do it with some evidence.

Last, you clearly abhor the world's militaries. A principled but foolish position: wait for the abundance of miseries if you ever get your wish. The only thing standing between civilisation and horror is a few young men and women trained to apply violence in the defence of right.

Has any one else pointed out that in WWII Canada had a almost solely volunteer army? Conscription was instituted after a national plebiscite in 1942 in which 63% of the population, men and women, voted in favour. In the end only 2463 men who were conscripted reached units on the front lines. Out of these, 79 lost their lives. Very good of you Ms. Cole to speak up for those 79 poor souls, but it is rather an affront to the 45,284 others who died volunteers. All of Canada's current soldiers are also volunteers, and it is they, drawn from all parts of Canadian society--gay, straight, make, female, urban and rural--who define the culture you so off-handedly and presumably without evidence define as some sort of horrific machismo.

And have you not listened to the words of "In Flander's Fields"? How can your heart not brim with sadness at the horror of loss and death portrayed in McCrae's evocative lyrics? Every Remembrance day event I have been at has spoken to me not of exultation but of loss and thanks for sacrifice.

In general I am repulsed by your so-called defence above, in the first instance because it is based on your seemingly boundless ignorance of Canada's history (which, despite what you appear to think is not the same as that of the US). If you are going to take a public platform platform to try to defend your cruel and petty action as some sort of virtue, at least do it with some evidence.

Last, you clearly abhor the world's militaries. A principled but foolish position: wait for the abundance of miseries if you ever get your wish. The only thing standing between civilisation and horror is a few young men and women trained to apply violence in the defence of right.

Well said Kristian. Let's see if Ms. Cole has the courage to respond to these thoughtful responses.

I am glad that neither of my grandfathers, WWII veterans both, are not alive to reach such a poorly written piece of vitrol.

The poppy is for remembrance (you must have found the name "Remembrance Day" confusing)and it IS to remember the atrocities of war-and the reasons why we are free today.

Ms. Cole, you should be ashamed of yourself.

What's that! You never studied history beyond Grade Six. Oh well, don't worry dear, I think it's awful that people to go around wearing puppies too.

Bad publicity is still publicity... the job is done

Doesn't matter what we think

The audience is clear though, Toronto is a bastion of them.

btw... at least NOW puts a disclaimer with their escort ads.

Bad publicity is still publicity... the job is done

Doesn't matter what we think

The audience is clear though, Toronto is a bastion of them.

btw... at least NOW puts a disclaimer with their escort ads.

Have your opinion, Ms. Cole - you are free to write what you want because others fought and died for your right to do so.

Fortunately no-one is going to police up your family and transport you to the gas chamber for having views that differ from what the government things is right! If you want to meet someone anti-war, talk to a soldier. Also, if you wanted to check any of the facts in your story (I am assuming you don't have anything like Google in your repertoire), I recommend a trip to your local Legion for a bit of first hand discussion with those who were there.

Hey, no-one volunteers to be a soldier for the glory. God only knows the misery that soldiers see and deal with every day during conflict. For a soldier close to me, it was seeing the baby nailed to the door in Bosnia or the goop from a leaky body bag draining down his arms as he hoisted them up from the mass grave into the truck. All these guys (and me) know, is that if no-one stands in the way of evil, evil prevails. The civilians didn't sign up for the death and misery, but the funny thing is that the soldier actually volunteered for this - because he or she thought it was the "right thing to do". Maybe go somewhere and get killed, maybe witness atrocities, but try to do some good in some forgotten hell hole somewhere.

Rest well at night knowing that there are others who are willing to stand up for what is right and that they will do this on your behalf whether you support them or not. Please don't bother coming to any Remembrance Day ceremonies - I don't need you to look on with your smugness while I comfort the mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters of those who didn't come back from the mission.

This Cole critter seems to be a sophomoric undergrad from Womyn's Studies 101. Look for an idea not planted in her by a propagandist -- you won't find it. In penning this hate-filled garbage, she's desecrated our national Memorial. Here, she sneers at the sacrifice of blood ("so-called"), shed for her, too, and tells us that male soldiers probably came home just to abuse their wives, who, incidentally, are the REAL items to be remembered. Mens' lives are expendable. Only raped civilian women are worthy of any pity. The worry is that this rad-fembo trash came out of the colleges, out of the tenured orifice of one of her profs. I don't know who publishes NOW magazine; I do know that, had you heads, you'd hang them in shame.

Unbelievable.

I've never felt so angry and disgusted from reading an article in any Canadian publication.

You should spend some time understanding why we honour soldiers in the first place. It's to remember that sending people to war results in real loss and hardship. It's to remind politicians and the public that war is horrible and should be a last resort.

I hate war but will always wear a poppy. We still need to thank those few who serve our country. Without their courage, our country would likely not exist.

I have attended many Remembrance Day ceremonies and feel that it is inaccurate to state that the ceremonies only "celebrate" soldiers.

The ceremonies I have attended celebrate freedom, they thank Veterans and recognize their efforts. They also teach children, who have been fortunate enough never to be faced with war in their country, the history of our country.

War is horrible and not all the men and women that served were wonderful people, the ceremonies don't claim they were perfect. The World Wars had dramatic effects on Canadian society. Many feel that our country forged it's identity during WW1, before then we were merely seen as a British colony. As for women, WW2 played a huge role in our entrance into the workplace.

The military had a booth at this year's gay pride festivities, so the military is making an effort in that regard also.

I don't need to attack Ms. Cole for her article but would prefer to urge her to attend more ceremonies to gain a more accurate view of what goes on. She is free to attend even if she chooses not to wear a poppy.

Wayne, is it really true that the lesbian Cole "stood up for Karla Homulka"? If so, not surprising. The lezz brigade lusts for Homulka. Many of them fantasize about Karla's crimes, and one of them, a tenured haridan named McKinnon, crossed the border to help Karla cop a plea. This, Dr. Freud, explains many things. This particular princess dwells in darkness. She'd envy those soldiers for being allowed to rape the gals.

My grandfather vounteered as a padre and my uncle in the airforce. the whole point of Remembrance Day is to REMEMBER so that we can try to avoid these wars. It's too bad you MISS the point. I would wear a poppy all year because I never want anyone to forget the cost of warand it is far greater than we imagine at first glance. Those costs are still being felt today. there is every other day of the year to think about how these nasty events come about. Your disrespect it appalling.

Unbelievable.

I've never felt so angry and disgusted from reading an article in any Canadian publication.

You should spend some time understanding why we honour soldiers in the first place. It's to remember that sending people to war results in real loss and hardship. It's to remind politicians and the public that war is horrible and should be a last resort.

I hate war but will always wear a poppy. We still need to thank those few who serve our country. Without their courage, our country would likely not exist.

And you should spend less time being a self-brainwashed sheep and more being a thinking person who tries to understand the underlying context in which Ms. Cole has expressed her views. She understands war and social problems a hell of a lot more than you, a person who seems to be a spoonfed baby eagerly lapping up what his masters in the MSM tell him, especially the bullshit justifications about why we're in Afghanistan (and let's face it, this is Canada's Vietnam.) Turn off the brainwashing that you're getting and start to listen to the truth about what's happening-for starters, I recommend Gwynne Dyer's writings on the subject, archived here at NOW. Wake up from your sleep and stop being a sheep.

The way I read it, this woman refuses to wear a poppy because she has some gender issues that somehow has warped her ability to understand what the poppy represents.

Not wearing a poppy is the least of this woman's problems.

susan cole, you're a f(#$%! idiot. as a jewish woman...??? *I'm* a Jewish woman and my grandparents were Holocaust survivors and EVERY Remembrance Day I wear a poppy (and buy several because they always fall off) to honour the brave men and women without whom I may never even have been born. It is because of them that my grandparents were liberated. There are many forums for questioning war and its rationale and outcomes. This is not one of them. Not only are you a disgrace but your parents should be ashamed of having done such a poor job in teaching you humility and gratitude.