A Memorial Day Reflection...2015

Memorial Day is a time to reflect and pay respect, show thanksgiving, and dedicate time to remember why we have the freedoms we do in this "Home of the Free". It's a day for the men, women, boys, and girls who gave their lives for the very freedoms we enjoy today. We can show appreciation and thanks for our current military but the purpose of today is to remember those gave all...so we can enjoy parades, picnics, and time with family. 

There are families who mourn the loss of their loved one today, more than other days. Theses families will probably be the first to encourage you to enjoy today and the freedoms we have. It is because of the sacrifice that we have this freedom. Ask our current military, they wouldn't want a day of mourning on Memorial Day, they are risking their lives, serving their country, and dedicating their lives in vain. Some serve because of the stories and memories shared by veterans. Some serve because of the man who gave all many wars ago. 

While you enjoy parades and family time, stop to shake the hands of a veteran. Ask him or her to share a story, if it's not too painful, of their comrades and the missions they participated in. This is an honor. Learn about the men and women we remember today. One of my favorite childhood memories was listening to Uncle Bob and Uncle Bill share their stories, they both served and valued their time in the service. Who could you ask today to share about one of the very servicemen we remember?

Take a moment to listen, remember, and reflect. You enjoy today and our freedoms because of so many who gave all. Enjoy the time with family and friends, but take time to remember WHY we have today off. 

As I watch my husband, brother-in-law, father, and family friend work to prepare a new fire pit this morning I am humbled. These four men each served our country in a war. They should be kicking their feet up and enjoying Memorial Day yet in the words of my Dad, "Memorial Day is more than picnics, it's a time to enjoy the freedoms his friends died for us to have." I paraphrased but this was the synopsis of his words and actions. Our Veterans and their families are usually the ones dedicating the most time to make Memorial Day special. Have you thought about why this is? 

It was while watching them work and listening to them talk that I realized the answer. They understand and witnessed all that is sacrificed when our men and women serve to protect and keep our freedoms. They have seen the loss at a magnitude most of us will never experience. They work hard today because they've lived the pain and heartache of watching friends and comrades give their lives. If we don't celebrate and remember, their lives were given in vain. 

Choose to remember and celebrate...there are men and women who knowingly, willingly, and lovingly gave their lives so you can enjoy today.  I hope you enjoy, cherish, and remember on this Memorial Day. We will both remember and spend time with friends and family, I pray the same for you.

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Will you share a Veteran's name and military branch in a comment below?
Feel free to share your favorite memory or story they shared,
I wonder how many will take 5 minutes to introduce us to their loved one?
Let's see how many tributes (comments) you can name today.

Happy Memorial Day...