MEMORIAL DAY MEMORIES. As I reflect today on the meaning of Memorial Day and what it means to me, I am pulled back into time remembering lives that have gone before me as well as fun memories of the holiday itself. As a child I remember that our family would always get together on this holiday. Barbecue, hamburgers, lemonade, watermelon, swimming pools, insect repellent and Coppertone are some of the memories that evoke my sensory buttons.
A special memory was the time when I was about 4 years old and my older sister was jumping into a blow up ring from the side of the pool. I remember watching her and wanting to do the same. I got out of the pool and jumped into the ring but made a big mistake! I forgot to put my arms out so that I would grab the ring without simply going right through the middle!
My memory of this is quite vivid. I clearly remember jumping in and before I knew it, I was under the water and looking up. As I floated beneath the water I wasn't scared at all. All of a sudden there was my beloved Grandfather who had jumped in beside me. I remember seeing change, cigarettes, his lighter all floating around me as he had jumped in to save me.
I couldn't understand the fuss as we emerged from the water. At no point was I ever afraid. In fact, it was quite peaceful there under the water. All I knew was that my grandaddy was there with his arms around me and pulled me to the surface. What a wonderful thing it is to know that you are safe.
So isn't that what Memorial Day is truly all about? All of our veteran's who have gone before us and have laid their precious lives down in order that we might be safe! These are the men and women who have fiercely protected what we feel to be sacred in this country and that is our freedom and our safety.
I am thankful to each and every man and woman who now serve in our armed forces and the many, many lives that have been sacrificed so that I might enjoy the freedoms that I do have today! We still do live in a wonderful country and we must never forget what this freedom has cost! May you each have a memorable Memorial Day!
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