Driving north to my home from church and visitation yesterday afternoon, I was struck by the number of cars heading south. Both 35 and the Parkway were clogged, so clogged that the traffic almost seemed not to be moving. Ah, the beginning of the Jersey Shore summer season.
There will be some parades, but most Shore visitors will not be attending; rather, they’ll probably be on the boardwalks. Yes, Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, but one would hope we remember the real meaning of the Day. Remembering the sacrifice so many made is important. I continue to be surprised at how many people who won’t even throw in a dollar into the VFW or DAV can for a paper rose of remembrance.
Memorial Day began with a commemoration of those who died in the Civil War, which at least kept the still young Nation together in body, although perhaps not in spirit. Remembering what that brutal conflict was about should make us more determined to be committed to true equality rather than the so-called equality in the push to eliminate DEI programs.
Prayer for the Day
God of memories, old and new, beautiful and sad,
Grace us in this time with your presence in our lives;
God of broken hearts, mend us and heal us,
And enable us to embrace the future.
Set us free from what has bound us to the past,
Freeing us to catch a glimpse of your kingdom.
In the name of the One who shows us how to live,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Loyalty to country always. Loyalty to government, when it deserves it.
Mark Twain, American writer (1835-1910)
Ceremonies are important. But our gratitude has to be more than visits to the troops, and once-a-year Memorial Day ceremonies. We honor the dead best by treating the living well.
Jennifer Granholm, former Michigan governor, Secretary of Energy
For the righteous will never be moved; they will be remembered forever.
They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord.
Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid;
In the end they will look in triumph over their foes.
Psalm 113: 6-8