Memorial Day

The unofficial first day of summer. The start of beach season. Not only is Memorial Day misunderstood as the kickoff to vacation time, but also it's significance is missed by many completely. From "remembering" people who have died in the past year to honoring current veterans, it seems that most Americans have no idea what it's all about. Here are the facts: Memorial Day started out as "Decoration Day," a day to honor Union soldiers who died during the Civil War by putting flags or flowers on their graves. (Perhaps this is why hundreds if not thousands of church members skip church on Sundays in May to go to Decoration Days around the world to put flowers on graves of loved ones.) After World War I, the holiday was expanded to include all soldiers who have died in any war. So while we need to remember our beloved dead from the past year and all years past, and while we need to honor our veterans, let's get back to the true meaning and remember that the blood that was shed by our military men and women has purchased freedom for people all over the world. Thank you to these men and women. Thank you to their families. We will never forget your sacrifice.