I have to admit, Memorial day hasn't always been on my radar of days to do good things. In fact, our family never even made a big deal of going on a trip or having a cook-out on Memorial day. But this year I'm turning a new leaf. I'm really pondering what Memorial day means and how Americans should keep the holiday. Both of my grandfathers were in the South Pacific in WW2. I've been thinking about them and the things they saw and experienced while overseas. My mom's dad actually had to recover from a broken back that he suffered while training as a para-trooper. While I don't know anyone personally who actually gave their lives in war, my grandfathers gave time in their lives in service to our country.
Webster's 1828 Dictionary gives this definition of the word, "memorial":
1. Preservative of memory.
There high in air memorial of my name,
Fix the smooth oar, and bid me live to fame.
2. Contained in memory; as memorial possession.
Let's do more this weekend than enjoy big barbecues and a few hours getting sunburned and let's actually honor the memories of the men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice. They followed the example of Jesus and as it says in Revelation 12:11, "they loved not their lives unto the death."
Great post! I'm glad we aren't the only family to actually remember why we are having this holiday. I just wish my Grandfather was here to thank. I never felt like I could thank him enough while he was still here.
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