Memorial Day is almost upon us and with it come family get-togethers, church potlucks, picnics, and long days by the lake. There are hundreds of ways to celebrate this holiday, which has become sort of the opening day of summer.
The Significance of Memorial Day
Sadly, many of those celebrating don’t really know the significance of the day. So, before we move on to the food, let’s chat about what Memorial Day is and why it is celebrated.
Memorial Day was first established in 1868 to remember the soldiers that had fallen during the Civil War. It was then called Decoration Day. Over time Memorial Day was a day set aside to remember the fallen in all of the wars, those who have fought and died to give the rest of us the freedoms that we so casually enjoy.
Being Grateful
Memorial Day is a day to be grateful. I know that being grateful for things is not such a popular concept in our society; a society that seems to believe that they are owed certain liberties far and above the “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness”. Whether you are a pacifist or someone who believes in the need for a well trained and equipped military, the truth is that men and women have died in the process of preserving a way of life based on freedoms. And, we should be grateful; to them, to their families , and to those who currently serve in whatever capacity.
So, this Memorial Day, before you tuck in to the potato salad or grab for that ice, cold beer? Gather your family and friends, tell them that you love and appreciate them, and together say a prayer of thanks for those who deserve to be remembered.
And be glad that you can do so without fear.
