Every year I return to the idea of Memorial Day, wondering what I could further say beyond what I’ve already posted; and truly, every year, I find I have little to add.
From the archives, written Memorial Day 2012.
Despite growing up an Air Force brat with instilled, unfailing pride in America and the Flag, I confess I giddily readied myself for the long Memorial Day weekend with ads. Lowe’s ads, Kohl’s ads, Pottery Barn, Bass Pro, etc. – I thrilled and poured over all the steals and deals to be had. Fixed on retail, my mind buzzed through shopping, but came to an abrupt halt when I saw this image.
And just like that, I was sobered.
Online sources say that her fiancé died in February of ’07. It is likely that she will spend many anniversaries here – ones of death, their would-be wedding day, birthdays, and certainly Memorial Day. And though I pray she’ll experience a joyful life with new love and family, she’ll never forget the personal pain of her beloved’s sacrifice.
What struck me about the photo is her obvious vigilance, indicated by her water, jacket, and blanket; and I was overcome with a sense of sorrow for her particular loss. My sympathy grew upon realizing the multitude of servicemen and women like her fiancé; individual souls whose earthly lives were given for citizens at home.
Theirs was a more Christ-like death than most of us will know; deaths offered willingly so that others may live abundantly. (John 10:10)
Memorial Day has always been a bonus day to me – a federal holiday giving folks an extra day off – but for what? More shopping? Fancy-free celebration with a burger and beer? These are the fruits of sacrifice – not the purpose of Memorial Day.
I have to assert that deep within this American tradition is a compulsion to do the will of God, not just on an individual level, but as a collective nation as well. The United States is blessed with liberty to set herself as an example of virtue and humility for the rest of the world; as faithful citizens we must follow through so that God may be glorified.
There is a certain reverence in remembering the Armed Forces this way.
After seeing the photo and recalling the service of thousands more who offered their entire selves for the singular Constitutional principles of the United States, I can’t say that today will be spent according to my original plan. Of course I intend to spend time with my family and friends, but Memorial Day calls for a more solemn and prayerful reflection of America’s fallen heroes.
So yes, kick back and relish in the freedom that cost so much, but not before expressing humble gratitude to God, and the men and women who held it so sacred as to die for it.
O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine!
Love this Katie!
Catherine,
How beautuful! Thank you for taking the time to share what we easily forget.
My prayers are with this young lady.
I bookmarked this beautiful article when I first read it and am sharing it this Memorial Day.
Kathryn, THANK YOU. I’m so humbled at the truly life-giving service within our Armed Forces. A blessing.
Thank you for your support – you are so kind to me!
Amen. From another Air Force brat.