Memorial Day

Today, our nation observes Memorial Day. It’s not Veteran’s Day. Memorial Day. There’s a distinction.

I want Sophia and Miles to recognize that today is more than “the official start of summer.” I’ve heard that phrase enough times in the last 24 hours to make me throw up. Enough.

Pools are opening. Fine. Great. Wonderful. We’re going to the pool this afternoon.

Massive sales at all the car dealerships. Shocking news. Shocking.

Furniture stores are offering no interest for 60 months. Nothing commemorates death in combat like a new love seat.

The world is ready for a party. I’m not sure that’s the most appropriate way to proceed. I’m in a somber mood.

Veteran’s Day should be a gigantic pep rally. Parades. Fireworks. Concerts. It’s a celebration for the living.

This Memorial Day, and every Memorial Day, shouldn’t we pause to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice?

“The greatest way to show love for friends is to die for them.” – John 15:13

I was up early today. Vikki was not far behind. Sophia and Miles, always ready for the next adventure, got up without any moaning or groaning.

We headed for the Carolina Field Of Honor in Kernersville.

We paused before each monument honoring the five branches of service. The children read the inscriptions at the base of the flag poles out loud. We rubbed our hands over the shred of steel pulled from the rubble of the September 11^th terrorist attacks.

We got their attention.

“This is not about your grandfather Dave. This is not about your grandfather Richard. This is not about your Uncle David. Your grandfathers were in the Coast Guard and the Army. Your uncle served in the Air Force. This is not about them.

This day is about the men and women who died so you can be free to live your life. Do you understand?”

The ride home was relatively quiet.

Miles headed outside with his Spiderman glove, cowboy hat and cap gun. He stopped at the door and looked back.

“Daddy, do you think I’d be a good soldier?”

“Yes. I hope you don’t have too, but, yes.”