Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.
John 15:13
Today is Memorial Day, the day we honor and mourn the U.S. military men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
It is not, as you may have seen, a day for honoring our veterans (which we do) or those currently serving (which we do).
The first observance of Memorial Day was on May 30, 1869 and was known as Decoration Day. Over the years it became Memorial Day and, since 1971, has been observed on the last Monday of May.
It is not now, nor has it every been, the beginning of summer, not even on the calendar.
Sure it feels that way. Pools and water parks opened this weekend. Lots of outdoor cookouts are taking place. (Not barbecues…barbecue is a food, not an event).
But in the midst of all of that, let us take the time to remember those who died that we may have our freedom.
Our country, and our flag, have received a lot of disrespect in recent months and years.
You won’t find that here. My flag is proudly flying from the front of my house.
I could go on a political rant, but I won’t. Today that would be a disservice to those to whom we owe so much.
So, I’ll merely say, thank you.