Memorial Day, a day of commemoration created in honor of the people who sacrificed themselves for their country. In my family it was also the day that we went to the graves of family members to give them a spring cleaning.
I've seen a lot of war memorials, and today, I've seen a lot of pictures honoring those who served by laying down their lives for their country. One of the most moving and chilling memorial I've seen is for the Koren War in Washington D.C.. It is especially eerie at night. It helps me to imagine what it is like being on patrol in the night. What it's like to be startled when you encounter something unexpected in the dark.
I know that our military have had more of the desert experience in recent years, but as you look at this picture imagine yourself being a part of this patrol. Imagine what it must have felt like to be there.
I've seen a lot of comments in this weekend about emphasizing that Memorial Day weekend is not about having three days off work and grilling meat. That's true. Almost all the members of my family from my dad's generation have been in the military. However, believe me when I tell you that they enjoy(ed) their Memorial Day Weekend family BBQs and get togethers as much as anyone.
Remember our fallen brothers and sisters, but let go of your guilt. It's okay. If you can't feel free to gather with family and friends, what did they die for anyway?
Memorial Day was originally to commemorate those who lost their lives in the Civil War (a.k.a. The War Between the States or The Recent Unpleasantness depending on where you live). However, in my family, it was a day to visit all the relatives that had gone on and spruce up their graves.
This is my dad's marker at Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
I'm too far away to visit it today, but I always keep this picture near me. I don't look at it often, but for some strange reason it comforts me to know that it's there. Here's to the man who gave me my first example of what it means to be a good person. Do what you say you're going to do. Stand up for people being abused around you. Empower people, so they can stand up for themselves.
It's funny. When I was making the arrangements for my father, even as I asked for advice, people told me that I could do whatever I wanted to do. Then, they second guessed every one of my decisions. Even when it came to this headstone, they thought that it was too simplistic. Even now, I think it's perfect. Military man was his primary identity, and I can't think of a better dad. Even though I was his only child, he was a father to just about everyone he encountered. Calm and patient. Always teaching. Always dependable.
So here's to you Dad, to you and all your compatriots on Memorial Day. May your efforts and sacrifices never be forgotten.
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