For most Americans, the Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer. This long three day weekend tends to be filled with barbecues, picnics and sporting events.
The soccer and baseball fields in our communities are filled with children playing and parents cheering. Many of us take to the roads and head “Up North” to camp and fish and boat. On this three day weekend in the Midwest, we rediscover our neighbors after a long winter and we catch up with friends and relatives.
It’s easy to forget the purpose and meaning of the weekend. Here’s part of the original Memorial Day Order:
“The 30th day of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country during the late rebellion, and whose bodies now lie in almost every city, village and hamlet churchyard in the land. In this observance no form or ceremony is prescribed, but Posts and comrades will, in their own way arrange such fitting services and testimonials of respect as circumstances may permit.”
The instructions are clear that there is no formal ceremony and that it is up to us as individuals and members of our community to remember.
Take a moment out of your activities and barbecues this weekend to live up to the spirit of the order and Remember. If you are so inclined, fly your flag and as you put it up and take it down, take a second and offer a silent thanks to those that served so that we might flourish.