Today in the United States it’s Memorial Day. This is the day when we in America (and of course Americans elsewhere in the world) remember those who has died while serving the country serving in the country’s armed forces.
Memorial Day is observed on the last day of May every year and it originated as Decoration Day after the American Civil War in 1868, when the Grand Army of the Republic commenced decorating the graves of the Union war with flowers.
As I assume you know, I’m not American, but America is the country and home I have chosen for the past 8 years and probably will remain for many years to come. My affinity for this country is huge and I appreciate that I even have the possibility of being here and creating a life here. I’m super appreciative of this opportunity and it is not something I take lightly.
So although I’m not American and although I don’t have family American family members who have served and died serving this country, I do still appreciate them and honor them. I’m not at all for war or conflicts, but these are part of life, so we cannot just avert our eyes from it even if we may be pacifists at heart.
My sentiments for America and for those who serve to protect her were also expressed in my post Happy 4th of July of last year, and are as true, strong and valid now as they were then.
Any day of remembrance is also a great day to reflect on things. Reflect on life, reflect on family and those you love.
I do a poor job at many of these things, both in the every day and even on the special occasions and holidays.
Not something I’m proud of and I can only hope that by me actually knowing this, I can begin to work on this subject to improve. Certainly I’m in need of a great many improvements in many areas.
Guess I have my work cut out for me. No small task for sure. But I do wish to get there and so I guess I just have to dig in.
Please wish me luck.
Meanwhile, I send my best sentiments and thoughts to those who were lost serving this wonderful country and to those loved ones they left behind.
