Memorial Day

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When I was in middle school that we would have to write an essay on what Memorial Day meant to me.  One was chosen from each grade to be read aloud at the Memorial Day assembly around the flag pole.  I didn't mind writing the essay but it made me think.  What did Memorial Day mean to me?  I hadn't lost anyone to war.  My grandfather and some Uncles were Veterans but they were alive and doing well.  I would write about how I was thankful for those who had died for my freedom.  And I was thankful.  It was just...abstract.

Since becoming a Navy wife it's become less abstract.  There's always the possibility that something could happen while he's out.  Granted, anyone of us could get in an accident and be killed.  But the men and women of our military know that when they deploy that there is the possibility that they may not come back.  It's a scary reality...for them and their families.  It's one that they accept so they can do their job. 

A friend from high school, a veteran, has the following quote on their profilel:

A Veteran is someone who at one point in their life wrote a blank check made payable to 'The United States of America' for an amount 'up to and including their life'.

The cliche freedom isn't free is true.  It's not free.  I'm still thankful for those that have died for my freedom, for our freedom. It has more meaning for me now.  Many men and women have died so we can enjoy that freedom.  So while you're enjoying the BBQ's and the sales, remember the men and women who have died for our freedom.  Remember their families that are missing them.  Remember those that are still fighting.

"Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13.

Thank you for your sacrifice.

Edited to add:   I found an interesting link today. It has info on the history of Memorial Day and you can virtually thank a Vet.