This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day. As the unofficial beginning of summer, Memorial Day has become for many a chance to get out and have some fun with your family. That’s great. But we must also remember what the holiday is really about.
Memorial Day began in the years following the Civil War to honor the fallen of that war. As time went on, the holiday grew so that now the day is intended to honor all of the men and women who have given their lives in military service to our country.
For this weekend’s family night, take some time to talk with your family about Memorial Day. If you’re financially able, purchase small U.S. flags and take them to a local cemetery. Place them on the graves of military service men and women. Many of them will have markers or inscriptions on their graves.
Memorial Day is also a great time to remember those who are currently serving our nation, especially with ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. As a family or individually, write letters to soldiers currently serving. They don’t have to be long…just from the heart. Whether you support their mission or not, it is a wonderful way to witness and support individual soldiers. If you know of one or more specific soldiers, make it personal and write to them. If not, there are several online groups including Letters to Soldiers, Any Soldier, and A Million Thanks that can facilitate the process.
End the time by praying for the safety of our soldiers.
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