Memorial Day. We think of barbeques, a day off of work, time spent with family and friends, camping, the beginning of summer, and discounts at stores. But what is the true meaning of Memorial Day? Memorial Day was initiated by General John A. Logan, when he decided that there should be nationwide tribute or remembrance for those who died fighting. “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land.”[1]
Memorial Day is to be a day where we remember those who have served our country. It is a day to remember those who died fighting for us and our freedoms. It is easy for us to get caught up in our busy lives, to get consumed by our wants, to become entitled, and to take for granted this amazing life that we are able to have because of those who fought on our behalf.
Most of us can only imagine what it was/is like to fight in the military, to see the most gruesome scenes, watch your friends suffer and die, freeze or overheat in different environments. For most of us, a show like “Band of Brothers” is the closest we will get to even understanding sliver of what it is like.
I know how easy it is to get caught
up in our own lives and to be focused on ourselves and those closest to us. But
this Memorial Day, I want to challenge you to appreciate and acknowledge the
fallen heroes and our living heroes.
Stop for a moment. Think about what they have been through and what they
have experienced. Be Grateful. We have been given an amazing gift of freedom. We
have a voice. We are able to live the lives we choose. Let’s not squander the life and freedom we
have been gifted. Let’s show our appreciation!
[1] https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/memorial-day-history
Photo credit: AP Photo/Cliff Owen
