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Poppies are blooming on lapels everywhere in Toronto.

The familiar red flower that people wore out of respect for fallen soldiers, and which was indelibly printed on our national psyche following publication of John McCrae's enduring poem In Flanders Fields in the First World War, continues to be a powerful symbol of sacrifice and respect today.

In wearing the poppy prominently on our coats and jackets nearly 100 years later, Canadians offer a sombre nod of respect to the young lives lost in military conflict, and acknowledge the supreme sacrifices that were made in defence of democracy and freedom.

Many sons and daughters of Toronto families over the last three generations have been lost to various military conflicts. Our contribution to the cause, whether fighting Nazi oppression in Europe or the Taliban in Afghanistan, has always been taken with deep faith in doing what's right, in standing shoulder to shoulder with our allies and in our obligation to peace and good order.

We encourage each and every Torontonian to proudly display a poppy in the coming days in honour of those brave men and women. Take the time to attend one of various ceremonies planned for this weekend and on Tuesday morning in communities across Toronto. Write a letter to a soldier serving overseas and send a tiny piece of home - and some kind, supportive words - to another part of the world. Visit a veteran in hospital or long-term care facility and brighten their day.

Canadians set aside a few moments each year to honour those who fought and died for us, to acknowledge their contribution to the freedoms we often take for granted, and to quietly offer a prayer or affirmation.

Please make an effort this year, as war continues to be waged in Afghanistan and as others die in various conflicts around the globe, to quietly offer your support, or a kind word, or a warm thought to those men and women.

Like you, they have families, mothers and fathers, people who love them and care about them and who want to see them return safely home.

Tuesday is Remembrance Day. Wear a poppy proudly. Take stock of the liberty we enjoy here at home. Think of those who died in the past and those who fight for us today.

Let us always remember, lest we forget.