Happy planning!

In days past, for me, Memorial Day used to be one of those days where I would get a free day from school or from work.  Whoo Hoo, a Day of Freedom – for me!  There was no thought or consideration to what it actually meant.   I think it was because there was no personal connection – or so I thought.  Images always portray Memorial Day as a day for remembering the people who made the supreme sacrifice – for “someones” freedom.  I didn’t know anyone who died, or who was fighting – or why – so why would I care?  I didn’t get it.

I get it.

The men and women in uniform – most of whom haven’t lived a day – not really.  So young and eager.

It’s a shame.

Hundreds of thousands of lives destroyed.  Not only the souls, and their families, that make the ultimate sacrifice – their lives – for the “an idea” of Freedom – for all of us (collectively all over the world).  But also for those who live or have lived – everyday with the horrors of war.  For those people – in their minds – it never ends.  It’s everlasting – where the suffering becomes a part of life.   My Memorial Day is spent remembering those people that have seen and experienced things that should never be seen or experienced.  These are the angels who are living/have lived a lifetime – in such a short time.

I get it, Dad – finally.

Instead of saying – Happy Memorial Day – which really doesn’t mean much to me.  I’m going to say “Thank You” and “I Love You” – to all the people I don’t know, that are here – with us.

This is my Memorial Day.

You’re in my heart – not only today – but everyday.