Over the weekend, Australia and New Zealand commemorated ANZAC day, in remembrance of Australians and New Zealanders who served and died in all wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping operations.
Remembrance services were on 25 April, which is the anniversary of the landing on Gallipoli in 1915.
Restrictions to contain the pandemic meant that, for the first time ever, the services were not open to public attendance. Instead, it was nationally broadcast to enable everyone to watch from their own homes.
We were asked to reflect privately on the contributions of those who were responsible for the traditions of Anzac, and their stories of service and sacrifice.
The rapid and escalating human costs of the virus has seen many political leaders in Australia and around the globe using language reminiscent of war time in relation to the pandemic.
Very likely, more people than ever paused to reflect.
Similar to what happens in times of war, the pandemic has brought societies and organisations together to deal with the threat to lives and livelihoods, while the mounting economic costs are profound.
All types of organisation, be they public, private or not-for-profit, face a day to day challenge to demonstrate the real value of their services and products. People will always have questions about costs and value for money.
Your perspective on value is what matters. Money is easy to count, but value is about perception, context and long-term importance.
My reflection, is that the past and present value of the people working in the front lines at our hospitals, police and fire departments and the defence forces will always exceed what any of us could ever afford to pay.