On the last Monday of every May we observe Memorial day. This federal holiday is set aside to honor and mourn those we have lost performing their military duty’s serving in the United States Armed Forces.
It’s actually not, “Happy” Memorial Day... just a single somber day of the year to reflect on the passing of those individuals that this country asked to do a job for all of us.
Regardless of politics, regardless of race or religion, just think about what Gold Star families have sacrificed.
I have a neighbor who’s older brother was killed in Vietnam at age 19. The mention of his name still brings tears to her eyes all these years later.
I never want to take that sacrifice for granted.
I think of other families whose losses are more recent from Iraq and Afghanistan. I try an empathize on how difficult every day may be for friends and families when contemplating what might have been if their loved one had returned safe.
Of course unless you have experienced it you really can’t relate.
“Was it worth it?”
That question haunts a lots of people including me.
The least the rest of Americans can do is show the survivors that we care by respecting the gravity of the day.
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While I understand it’s a cookout weekend that signals the start of summer and all the extra emphasis coming out of COVID, please remember that it is Memorial Day.
The freedoms we enjoy were purchased with a heavy price.