I've always observed Memorial Day, remembering the brave men and women who gave all so I could be free - going to the memorial service at the cemetery, putting out my flag, visiting graves of those who served and gave.
When I thought about it this morning,
I felt sick....
I don't think I want to observe it this year.
No, I think I'd like to hide in the mountains somewhere...
in a cabin, secluded from the world.
Only, I know the mountains won't take the fact away that Memorial Day is now personal.
I can't get away from that no matter where I go.
Memorial Day includes my son.
Not just Civil War, World War I and II...not just the Vietnam War or Korean War men and women...not just people I admired for sacrificing their lives...
My son.
I thought about that...
My son gave his life because he believed in our constitution, in our country- one nation under God.
So I bucked up, pulled myself up by my Asics, and talked to myself...
Well then, by golly, there better be some memorializing going on.
My son did not give his life in vain.
I honor his life and his sacrifice.
Yes, it's tough, very tough.
But, I stand with so many mothers who had to say good-bye too soon.
I stand with wives who didn't know that 'I love you' kiss was the last they'd share.
I do not stand alone.
I believe we share,
along with the heartbreak, and the tears, an unshakeable confidence and peace. Pride in
the integrity and selflessness our children/spouses exuded
by serving their country.
To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."
This Memorial Day, join in at three o'clock to remember those who gave their lives in the name of freedom.
I know I will.
I remember everyday.
