Reflections on Remembrance Day at Tanglewood Horncastle

In reflection of the solemn significance of Remembrance Day and Armistice Day, our attention this week centred on these poignant events. We embarked on a heartfelt journey, crafting poppies to grace our surroundings—a gesture that resonates deeply with everyone involved. During this time, our cherished residents graciously shared some of their cherished memories.

Nestled in the heart of Lincolnshire, where the echoes of history are vividly present, a predominant recollection emerged—the haunting sound of planes overhead. One resident tenderly recounted moment of seeking refuge under the kitchen table, seeking reassurance from a loving mother during those uncertain times. The planes posed the lingering question, “Is it ours?” and the unwavering response, “As long as I’m here, you’re safe.”

As we delved into the local history, stories unfolded about a nearby POW camp in Moorby and the unexpected arrival of evacuees from Grimsby. A revelation that Grimsby, due to its strategic docks, became a significant target, challenging preconceived notions about the origin of evacuees. Another resident shared a poignant tale of an older sister working at a munitions factory in Grantham, her daily return marked by clothes and skin tinged with the color of sulfur. The memory of a weekly KitKat, a precious treat in times of rationing, brought a bittersweet smile to our hearts. Interestingly, the KitKat of that era was a single finger, wrapped in a green wrapper—a detail that adds a layer of historical charm to the narrative.

Perhaps the most surprising revelation was the overall positive tone of wartime memories shared by our residents. Whether attributed to the innocence of youth or the resilience of those in agriculture-focused occupations, laughter threaded through their recollections. While these tales were inevitably tinged with the tragedy of war, they underscored a valuable lesson—that even in the face of adversity, there are moments of gratitude and joy to be found.

In acknowledging the sombre backdrop of history, we take to heart the wisdom that, no matter how challenging the world may seem, there is always something to be grateful for. It is a testament to the enduring human spirit that, even in the midst of adversity, we can uncover and embrace moments of joy.