Parties with barbecues, fireworks, and games. These are the traditional activities for Memorial Day weekend. However, is seems the true meaning behind this holiday has been forgotten. Ironic, considering its name.
Lest we forget.
Memorial Day is for remembering those who served in our country's armed forces and did not come home. So many men and women gave their lives to protect our rights, liberties, and freedom. Countless of us take that for granted. Why?
Complacency.
We are comfortable in our lives shielded from the horrors of war. We are not directly exposed to the chaos, fears, regrets, and downright hardships of combat. There is no truer statement than "ignorance is bliss." The less we know of the truth that results in the deaths of so many honorable service members, the more we forget about their sacrifices.
As a veteran myself, I am humbled every time someone thanks me for my service, as I do not feel I deserve the recognition. Sure, I voluntarily gave years of my life, but I was never put in a life threatening position. I never deployed to a combat zone. Working in intelligence, I supported those that were sent away, but my survival was never in question. I did not give the ultimate sacrifice. I was lucky where so many others were not. They are the ones who truly deserve the recognition.
As we conduct our cookouts and play cornhole, we should think of those that cannot do the same, whether it be those we lost, or those who have lost someone. Not everyone will have a good weekend. I am not saying you should not enjoy the holiday, but rather show compassion and consideration for those who hurt deeply this weekend.
Remember why we have the parties. Why we can still have them, not just this weekend, but every day.
Do not forget those brave souls that gave absolutely everything, so that we can continue to enjoy our safe, protected lives.
***Dedicated to all the service men and women that gave the ultimate sacrifice. ***
May they rest ever in the arms of the Lord, and be reunited with their loved ones in Heaven.