Sometimes words cannot sufficiently express the sentiments behind them. We string a couple consonants and vowels together and end up with a word we recognize. Next we attach meaning to that word, but here's where things get tricky. Each one of us have our definition of what something means. Concepts like good and evil; hot and cold. There is a general understand of these ideas but each is influenced by the context of our life's experiences so even if we can agree on a word, it's difficult to wrangle together a meaning we all can agree on.
Today is Memorial Day. When something is memorialized, it is remembered for the value it brought to it's surroundings. When we apply this to people who have dedicated and sacrificed their lives to a greater cause, we seek to honor and esteem them for making choices many of us have never had to face. Choices we are spared from making because of the very sacrifices of those we commemorate. For me, Memorial Day is not about just honoring those Service women and men who have passed. It is about looking around and acknowledging the legacy they left and the future they have selflessly provided for us.
Traditionally, many if us will enjoy today with a barbecue or a cookout. If the weather is accommodating, we will fellowship over food, drinks, and laughter while enjoying a stable and free society. I hope we can realize that the same environment we share with one another is not typical of many places around the globe. We are a blessed nation and need to reflect upon those who have provided us with such an unequivocal gift of freedom.
And hopefully, as this day transcends politics and partisanship, we can stretch the sentiment out a little longer thanks a mere afternoon or day. Memorial Day is a specific designation and should be the minimum amount of time we honor those who have died. I think in order to pay true homage to their legacy, each one of us should do our part to make this country better every day.
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