This is truly a special time of the year. When you think of Memorial Day weekend, it pretty much kicks off the start of a warmer weather season. Or at least you hope so, depending on what part of the country you are from.
Many will enjoy Memorial Day and have time for a long fun weekend, a day at the beach, and some great barbecues.
As I write this, I currently have the blessing of spending a few days in Connecticut, the state where I grew up. The weather has been gorgeous. On Friday night, I was able to enjoy a wonderful concert. I was blessed to see Lynyrd Skynyrd and had the opportunity to meet the band members. I was thankful that they took the time to honor America and all those who served our country. I’m also thankful for the time I was able to spend with some wonderful friends.
This Memorial Day, I will continue my tradition of spending time at the beach club with my family. The forecast is calling for a hot day, a perfect time to spend at the beach. There will be music, swimming, and lots of fun in the sun. This is a day I am really looking forward to.
The traditions are wonderful and I hope that each and every one of you have a special and blessed day as well. There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying Memorial Day. However, the most important part of Memorial Day is to remember.
It is easy to fall into the trap of taking our freedom and blessings for granted. We live in a wonderful country. America is the greatest country in the world. We are blessed to have freedom and the ability to pursue wonderful opportunities. America is and always will be the land of opportunity.
We all know a price comes with freedom. Freedom is certainly not free. Many have gone before us and paid the ultimate sacrifice for such.
My dad was a World War II and Korean war veteran. He passed away over 20 years ago. Dad was part of the greatest generation. He rarely spoke of his experiences in the wars but when he did tell stories, anyone who listened was on the edge of their seats, including myself. He was blessed to come home after the wars but it bothered him that many did not have that opportunity. Many veterans can relate to this.
On this Memorial Day, take a few moments with your family and friends, and have a time of gratitude for all those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we can all be free. Never ever take their sacrifice for granted. Pray for the families that have lost loved ones. This is a very difficult time for them. If you know families that have experienced loss, reach out to them and be there for them.
One of my most favorite songs to sing is a song by Billy Ray Cyrus called “Some Gave All.” I will end this week’s motivation with the chorus.
“All gave some and some gave all. Some stood through for the red, white, and blue and some had to fall and if you ever think of me, think of all your liberties and recall……Some Gave All. Some Gave All.”
