Today, on the last Monday of May, many will be boating, cooking out, spending time with family. As we do, let’s bow our heads in remembrance of the men and women who served our country and gave the ultimate sacrifice. Their lives. Memorial Day is a day for remembering the men and women who died while serving our country in the armed forces. Celebrate the memories of those men and women.
On a flight this weekend, I sat across the aisle from a young man who obviously looked like he was in the military. Strong build, 
military haircut. I wanted to ask him what branch he served in, where he was coming from and where he was going, but he had slept the entire flight. My boys would say he was lucky to avoid the acquisitions that to them is quite torturous. Sitting with a mom who can talk to anyone! As we deplaned I was walking behind the young man who seemed to have an added pep in his step. Sleep must have been much needed. He entered the revolving door before me. He struggled apparently expecting it to be automatic. I pushed it for him. Exiting the door I bumped into him because he had stopped just a step out. We were met with immediate flashes of light.
Looking up I saw an older man with a tear stained face. His father. Just behind him the source of the flashes, a lady, with camera in hand snapping away. His mother. A younger boy lingered farther behind the parents struggling to hold back the sobs, his chest heaving. When the lady lowered the camera her tear stained cheeks beamed with a smile that expanded normal facial abilities. I covered my heart with my hand and whispered, “Bless you,” to her. This mother, father and little brother received the young military man with pride and joy. Many families don’t get that type of reunion.
Today please remember those families as we enjoy this federal holiday. Celebrate the day with joy in remembrance of the lives that were lost fighting for our country, serving our country. Celebrate the memories. Pray for the families of those lost. Pray that today they celebrate the lives and memories of their loved ones.
“They are dead; but they live in each Patriot’s breast,
And their names are engraven on honor’s bright crest.” Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, The Battle of Lovell’s Pond
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand, the spines of others are often stiffened.” Billy Graham
