Four Girls Later

I read a transcript regarding a broadcast today and it went a little something like this… The broadcaster was offended with something he read regarding how it’s not appropriate to wish someone a “Happy Memorial Day”. He kind of associated it with facebook culture and said, “Also, I feel like if they had really wanted us to be somber about Memorial Day they WOULDN’T HAVE SCHEDULED IT TO COINCIDE WITH THE END OF THE SCHOOL YEAR!” 

I realize that in 1968 Congress moved the date to the last Monday in May instead of the original May 30th. However, a very quick generic google return from the Office of Veterans Affairs, will share the most likely reason that it was chosen for the month of May, was because throughout the country flowers would be in bloom. Flowers to decorate graves. 

I am not a soldier, nor would I ever pretend to be one. So clearly, I can’t speak from that perspective. However, I do love one. I am a very proud military spouse and a mother to four incredibly resilient military kids. I have found myself keeping watch during countless deployments and running our house alone, often. The picture below is of my husband meeting our oldest daughter for the first time. I can still vividly remember the two of us weeping at the Nashville airport, while everyone around us looked on.

I also grew up thinking that this weekend was the unofficial kick off of summer. However, as with most things in life, when you get a chance to experience someone else’s culture, your perspective changes. So here’s the thing I’ve learned over the last decade and a half.

First and foremost, please do not take this weekend to thank a soldier. This is not their weekend. Trust me on this one. 

Second, take time in your homes to acknowledge what this day means for so many. Pray for these families. If you’re so inclined – find organizations that align themselves with helping gold star families. Take time to teach what the ultimate sacrifice means. 

Next, take full advantage of that long weekend and celebrate their lives. Have a barbecue and spend that time with people that you cherish. Swim with your kids and take a moment to enjoy the sun’s reflection on the water. Live a life worthy of the gifts you’ve been given. Love people well. Live a lifestyle of gratitude. Lets teach our kids this, too.

Shine your light. 

Xoxo, 

Sara