At 3:00 PM, on this Memorial Day, I'll stand along side rows of flag marked graves and give thanks for the blessing of freedom generations of Americans have won for you and me.At 3:00 PM I'll take the opportunity to remember those who died in the defense of freedom worldwide. For all through its history, America has been a beacon to other peoples, serving as a source of inspiration, a haven for the poor and oppressed, and a friend to nations in distress. My hope is for all of us to have the same strength and moral reserve demonstrated by these veterans, as well as for a true and lasting peace found in a world where liberty and justice prevail.
At 3:00 PM I will take a slip of paper from my pocket and read these words, "Until the world knows no aggressors, until the arms of tyranny have been laid down, until freedom has risen up in every land, a good nation shall maintain its vigil to ensure the sons and daughters who died on domestic and foreign fields and waters shall not have died in vain." -- Lyndon B. Johnson
At 3:00 PM I will remind myself that it doesn't matter what my or your opinion is of the policies set in our nation's capital because for this one thing we can agree; the sacrifice of those who have died and the families feeling the sting of their loss, should be recognized and honored.
You see, for all too many, Memorial Day isn't just today, but it's every day....
... and not just at 3:00 PM.
5 comments:
Nice thoughts. Thank you.
Lovely sentiments and so true - it doesn't matter how we feel about the policy, the strategy, the motivation or the success or failure of war - what matters is that we honor those who serve.
Boomer - once again - I see His light shining right through you.
Jenny
Well put! That is all I have to say on that.
I think that there should be a new law passed where you are not allowed to take off on Memorial Day or Labor Day unless you pass a short essay exam asking what are the significance of both days. That might make people appreciate those days off just a bit more. Most people my age (27) and younger just think it as a federal holiday for people just to have the day off.
Murtha...
Thank you for this nice post. I work at the VA hospital and agree with your sentiment that no matter what your politics or opinions, these vets need our gratitude and support.
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