Happy Memorial Day
Memorial Day, the kick off of summer fun. A day off for most folks, a reason to party for some.
Somewhere along the way, about 95% of Americans have forgotten what it’s really about and that is sad in my opinion.
No matter your thoughts on wars or the military, at some point in the past, some military action is what gave you the right to think and express your opinion. Without the military and our past wars, who knows what kind of shape we’d be in right now.
Tea & crumpets? Nein for no? Praise Allah or die? Who knows? Right now though, you can have your tea & crumpets while praising Allah, nein? You’re pretty much free to do what you want within reasonable limits.
Who’s responsible for that? The men and women of all backgrounds, races and religions who’ve made up our military over the years. Folks who’ve given us time out of their lives, put their lives on the line and sacrificed more than we civilians can ever imagine- for us to remain free to think, to feel, to express ourselves as we see fit.
The men and women of the military, both past and present, deserve our respect, our reverence, and our support.
Memorial Day is a time to show that respect, not a general day off after warm weather has arrived for a shit kickin’.
To all the ladies and gentlemen who’ve sacrificed so much in the past or present, be it during a wartime or during peace, I thank you. You have my utmost respect and gratitude. Thank you doesn’t seem like enough.
May each of you have a Happy Memorial Day.
May 24, 2008 at 3:38 pm
Snigs, thanks for remembering, now go enjoy the BBQ, and all the trimmings!
May 24, 2008 at 3:56 pm
I’ve always thought it was ironic to say “Happy” Memorial Day… At any rate, I hope you all have a fabulous weekend.
May 24, 2008 at 4:18 pm
Any day we’re still a free country is a Happy day. I think about 3 of my uncles who were WW2 vets that have now died, Uncle Don (Navy) and Uncles Grady & “Boy” (both Army) and I can’t help but smile when I think of them. Remembrance and respect make me happy too- happy that someone still cares.
May 25, 2008 at 4:30 am
Memorial Day Sonnet
If Liberty means anything to me,
I will remember what my freedom cost,
By those who gave their all to keep me free,
Whose lives were sacrificed, but never lost.
I will remind myself of what they did,
And keep them dearly cherished in my heart;
Their honor never from me shall be hid
And I will know they always did their part
To save our nation and its people here,
To pledge their lives in defense of our ways,
To show that freedom always outlives fear,
And sacrifice is hallowed all our days.
If Liberty means anything to me,
I will remember those who kept me free.
© John Stuart 2008
Pastor at Erin Presbyterian Church,
Knoxville, Tennessee
May 25, 2008 at 4:28 pm
amen.