Memorial Day

    


     Today is Memorial Day, the end of a three day weekend with a big agenda. Not only is it a time to honor our fallen soldiers, but it is also the start of summer, the blockbuster movie season, graduation parties and first trips to the beach. Many feel conflicted wanting to wish everyone a "Happy Memorial Day!" but knowing that the sentiment isn't quite right.  I spoke with a few members of the silent generation recently. They remember the holiday celebrated very differently in their youth. Each of them recalled reflective trips to the cementary and simple picnics with a small group. Memorial Day wasn't a business opportunity. It was a day of rememberance. This is not say that we shouldn't enjoy our day off. These older individuals were  thinking back to years shortly following the end of World War II when the world was healing from a collective grief. But, we can pause briefly and acknowledge the sacrifice of those who served sometime in the course of our weekend.  Have a moment of silence for those who were lost and spend a few minutes contemplating the veterans in your life. Do you have family that served? A neighbor?  A teacher? Imagine them as young people heading out to far off places to defend the nation on our behalf.  Now think of the stories you've heard about those who have left us. Do you remember a story your grandmother told? Did you recognize your postman or a church member marching in uniform down the parade route? Write these recollections down in your journal. Keep the memories going.    

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