Memorial Day is different for every individual. It can be a happy and
joyful day for some and a reminder of a crushing loss for others. There
has been some debate on social media about using "Happy" to describe
Memorial Day, or Decoration Day as it used to be called. I've had many a
happy "Memorial Day" but I also understand why many despise the
phrase. I still have relatives in the military, so I can see both sides
of the issue.
Some of us enjoy picnics and time with family and friends and view the
day as the gateway to summer. Often this is the annual trip family
members make to visit the cemetery to place flowers at the relatives and
ancestors graves. I think there are many emotions involved in this day,
happiness, bittersweet memories and outright grief.
So be mindful of others and let us not forget the true reason for this
Holiday. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military
personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those
who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
I have fond but bittersweet memories as a child in a small town, placing little American
flags on the grave-sites in our local cemetery. Many other local
children took part in this somber activity. My Father and Grandfather
were both veterans and would usually take part in the ceremony as well.
I still remember the trumpet playing the song "Taps". If you've
forgotten the lyrics, I found them at
www.scoutsongs.com/lyrics/taps.html and posted them below.
Before you go off on your happy party or picnic with family and friends,
just take a few moments to remember those who fought and died for you
and your loved ones.
Taps
© Pennsylvania Military College
Day is done, gone the sun,
From the lake, from the hills, from the sky;
All is well, safely rest, God is nigh.
Fading light, dims the sight,
And a star gems the sky, gleaming bright.
From afar, drawing nigh, falls the night.
Thanks and praise, for our days,
'Neath the sun, 'neath the stars, neath the sky;
As we go, this we know, God is nigh.
Sun has set, shadows come,
Time has fled, Scouts must go to their beds
Always true to the promise that they made.
While the light fades from sight,
And the stars gleaming rays softly send,
To thy hands we our souls, Lord, commend.
Thank you all for visiting today.
~~~ Diane ~~~