Memorial day is a day that is Celebrated in multiple ways across the country. Pool openings, picnic's at the lake, Family gatherings, BBQ's, Sports, or just a day off. Memorial Day weekend was never meant to undermine the meaning of the Day, It is not to say that a family cannot enjoy this time and make positive memories together, however, It is important that we take the time and honor the fallen. Memorial Day is a time to remember the Men and Women that gave their life while serving you, me, and this country for generations to come. It is said that, in 1862 women of Savannah, GA were the first to place flags on the graves of the soldiers. It was not until 1868 that a proclamation was observed nationwide. I am proud to say that I come from a long line of Veteran's; One of my Sons just got out of the Army after nine years of service with two deployments in the middle east, My Husband served ten years in the Army with many deployments across the world, My father served in the Navy overseas and the Korean war, my Grandfather, Great-grandfather, cousins, uncles, all the way back to Chief Justice John Marshall and more, all Served this country with Honor. We who stay in our comfortable environment cannot grasp the full magnitude of all they did for US, only another solider truly understands that. They are ALL Hero's to me! A Hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself -Joseph Campbell The Other Hero's to me are the Families that press on, when their loved one is deployed, living their lives with a part of them missing, close, not forgotten, and yet so far away. many come home to hug again... and many do not. These families have also made sacrifices. I have a childhood friend that grew up without a father, He was considered MIA after his plane crashed, that was in 1965. Her mother was now raising three children alone, all under the age of five. Wow, What a challenge for this family to go on with their daily lives, not knowing for years the definitive outcome, since his body was never found. As our government gave him a marker in Arlington, I could not imagine all the thoughts that went through this families mind when the marker was placed. My heart breaks for these that have sacrificed so much - the Soldiers that daily face uncertainty with bravery and fortitude and the families that faced each day through the unpredictable or grief. Today, along with our servicemen and women who died for this country, I also honor my friend's mother and all the other mothers and fathers who had to un-expectantly raised their families alone. Hero's are not always a result of a moment of quick thinking and salvation- sometimes it's a family facing an empty chair at their table. In the words of Lee Greenwood: I'm proud to be an American where at least I know I'm free. and I won't forget the men (women) who died who gave that right to me, and I'll proudly stand next to them to defend her still today - cuz there ain't no doubt I love this land, God Bless the USA. vjb
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AuthorIntentionally Living a Life with a Spirit Archives
June 2020
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