Remembering to remember.

Welcome. It is Friday, May 25, 2012, and we are preparing to celebrate Memorial Day here in our country. Memorial Day, the last Monday of May, is set aside to honor all those who have given their lives in the service of our country. On Memorial Day the flag is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day. The debate continues about whether the move back in 1968 to turn certain holidays into three day weekends has lessened the spirit and the solemnity associated with this national recognition. Most veteran organizations believe it has diminished the intended purpose while others believe it actually connects by celebrating the freedoms that these heroes gave up their lives to preserve. While it may be hard for us to decide, it shouldn't be difficult at all for us to use this time as a way of remembering the facts of our sojourn as a nation, with special appreciation for the blood spilled by patriots that gave their all. Maybe Lee Greenwood's words from his nationally acclaimed patriotic song will help to frame our thoughts: "And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me."  Amen.

It is always appropriate for us to think about the fact that our freedom has never been something that was free. It has come at a price and that price has impacted countless families in our nation. The memories of those lost in battle remain fresh in the hearts of their loved ones. We were in service for a number of years with a lady who lost a brother in WWII. When we set up tributes she would always decorate an area for her brother. And, she just couldn't keep from weeping. Folks, WWII was a long time ago. But her love for her brother was as fresh as today's headlines. That devotion impressed me and it does help to characterize the personal meaning of this day set aside to honor our fallen. She is not alone. Another fellow we served with was a toddler when his dad was killed in WWII. He loved his dad but never got to meet him. He grew up and went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force but even as a retired older gentleman he could not hold back the tears when he talked about the dad he never knew. These personal observations are not included here to put us all on a guilt trip. They are reminders of the reality of this ultimate sacrifice and its impact to so many, therefore, we can be proud of those who have made it possible for us to express our thankfulness to God for them, and their service, along with a prayer for their families who bear this loss every day. I say God bless them all. Amen.

Lord willing I will see you right here on this same station next Tuesday. Stay safe and may God bless.     ....More later.