The Importance of Historical Perspective

Today is June 6, 2013 – sixty nine years ago today the Allied Forces stormed the beaches of Normandy in what was perhaps the boldest military invasion in history.  160,000 American, British, and Canadian soldiers landed on the beaches of France to begin the long, bloody battle to liberate France and the rest of Nazi occupied Europe.

On this day I find myself reflecting on the daunting task they faced.  Reflecting on their courage, their strength, and their ultimate accomplishment.  Reflecting on the uncertainty they faced and what must have been going through their minds as they waded through that water.  Reflecting on the perspective their situation, their efforts, and their triumph provides.  

I find their strength inspires strength in me; for I know my problems are trivial compared to not only theirs, but anyone living through that period.  It makes today’s problems seem small and conquerable.  And it reminds me that we have some very big shoes to fill.