Sometimes knowing the difference makes all the difference…
Today is Memorial Day here in the United States. Many people will celebrate such a day by sleeping in, grilling out, and getting drunk. Perhaps they will go to the lake or pack a picnic lunch and peruse the park. Many will throw on a pair of blue jeans, a patriotic shirt and wave ole’ glory shouting “God Bless the USA”. So what’s wrong with this picture? Well, nothing…if it were Armed Forces Day, Veterans Day, Independence Day or even Flag Day.
Memorial Day is meant to be just that…a living memorial. Our nation is to remember those who gave their lives in service to this great land. We are to think on those who have died and think about what a high price tag freedom has dangling from its left sleeve. We should weep for the widows and never-met newborns…we should shed a tear for the parents who have had to endure a booming twenty-one gun salute and being handed a perfectly folded flag.
Memorial Day is not a time to simply celebrate…we have four other holidays in place that allow us to taste the sweet water of freedom that runs freely down the rivers and streams of this great land. But for one day…one moment…the melodic parties should subside and give way to a quiet remembrance of those did not and are not ever coming home and for those that still set an extra place at the dinner table so they never forget.
So, enjoy your freedom, take it in…but please just do me one favor at least on Memorial Day…
Remember… (click for audio)
