Memorial Day has become a time that so many people associate with a three day weekend, a time for getaway mini-vacations for those who want "out of the rat race" for a few days, and businesses hold big sales for all who would rather stay home and shop.

I just wanted to remind everyone of the true significance of
Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, as a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service.

It is a time for placing flags, wreaths and flowers on the graves of our national heroes, to honor and remember those who have given their lives to keep America safe. It is also a time to fly your own flag at half staff from dawn until noon on Monday, May 28. (Bring the flag to full staff at noon.)

If you would like to learn more about the true significance of Memorial Day, Google is full of references. Here is one:
Memorial Day[/URL]

I hope everyone has a safe and meaningful Memorial Day, and that you will enjoy this national holiday even more if you have taken a little time to reflect on it's true meaning. There is nothing wrong with taking a small vacation, or going shopping, etc...so long as your heart remembers the true significance of the day.

Try to include a visit to a nearby cemetery and place a small flag or a flower or two on the grave of a veteran family member who lost their lives, so that we can live free. Even red, white and blue ribbons attached to a stick is pretty when it flutters in the breeze next to a headstone. If you don't have a family member buried near you who has died for his or her country, place a flag or a few flowers on any veteran's grave you find who lost their life for their country. I know that any veteran's family would be grateful for your thoughtfulness. It's just a random act of kindness.

Blessings to all, and have a safe and enjoyable weekend!

Mare

[ May 25, 2007, 05:35 PM: Message edited by: azspirit ]

Good Point Mare...I was just discussing this with my Mom today as we were on our way home from the store...all these people getting ready to go to the beaches, having bbq's, and partying like it is 1999! I said to her that is not the reason for Memorial Day...over the years people have forgotten the real reason for it...and I think it is a sad thing to know that!

But I did pay a visit to a couple of places today while I had a chance to show my respect for those who gave their life for me to have my freedom and it just made me feel great to know that and to do something for them!

I too hope everyone out there has a safe and happy Memorial Day and God Bless all those who are serving or who have served our country...you all have done a great job!

Kathy, I just wanted to commend you for having taken some time to honor and respect those who died for our freedom! That is great!! =)

Thanks so much...It means alot to me as well because I have some family that right now is in Iraq serving our country...and I have a few that have since passed that served...so like I said it means alot! And again thanks!

yes and we must remember, those who have fallen.and give a hand to those who are severly wounded. who will never be able to live a normal life again.

Yes, we need to remember those whose lives are permanently altered by their service to our country. I know that many have come home with severe physical and wounds and amputations that are so very difficult to deal with, along with emotional scars to last 1000 lifetimes. May all of them be blessed with the greatest comfort we can give them, not the least of which is our thanks and gratitude for what they have endured, as well as helping them get back as much of their former life as possible. My heart goes out to all of them, and their families, today and every day of my life. I wish there was more I could do.

Love and blessings,
Mare

I remember them always and keep them close to my heart, especially in this time of war.

It's funny, Katt, I was discussing the very same thing with my mom (azspirit) before she'd told me she posted this on the board. I was just disgusted about the flurry of "sale" commerials for furniture and cars, etc. Most never say a word about thanking the troops, etc. -- it just seems to be all about businesses making money.

Not trying to be a curmudgeon and say that some vacation or shopping on this weekend is bad, it isn't; I'm just hoping that everyone takes the time to remember the fallen and those who continue to fight. That said, here are a couple websites that help our soldiers. =)

Fisher House[/URL]
The USO[/URL]

xoxo,
Kell

It's never far from my mind.

Thanks for the post Mare.