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Following the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, John Adams, one of the signers, said, "I am well aware of the Toil and Blood and Treasure, that it will cost us to maintain this Declaration, and support and defend these States. Yet through all the gloom I can see the rays of ravishing Light and Glory...I can see that the end is more than worth all the means."
He was right. Our freedom has, and does, cost much---to most of us, it is worth it.
This weekend we remember those---and their families and loved ones, who paid the price.
While Memorial Day weekend is a kind of official kick-off for summer, with grilling and chilling, and enjoying the "Light and Glory" of this great country, let's take a look back and remember those who paid the ultimate price.
Some thoughts about the Day, and some terrific suggestions as to how we can remember and celebrate.
Other than biblical writings, the works of Henry Wadsworth Longfellow are my personal favorite.
31daily.com published the following Longfellow poem a few days ago:
DECORATION DAY
Sleep, comrades, sleep and rest
On this Field of the Grounded Arms,
Where foes no more molest,
Nor sentry’s shot alarms!
Ye have slept on the ground before,
And started to your feet
At the cannon’s sudden roar,
Or the drum’s redoubling beat.
But in this camp of Death
No sound your slumber breaks;
Here is no fevered breath,
No wound that bleeds and aches.
All is repose and peace,
Untrampled lies the sod;
The shouts of battle cease,
It is the Truce of God!
Rest, comrades, rest and sleep!
The thoughts of men shall be
As sentinels to keep
Your rest from danger free.
Your silent tents of green
We deck with fragrant flowers
Yours has the suffering been,
The memory shall be ours.
— Henry Wadsworth Longfellow
The website, 31daily.com also published information that all Americans should know about Memorial Day---how it began, how and when the name was changed from "Decoration Day" to "Memorial Day"---and why do people wear little red poppies on Memorial Day weekend.
It highlights significant comments made by America's leaders and presidents regarding this special day.
The site provides 7 meaningful ways in which Americans can "remember" on Memorial Day.
Check it out and have a wonderful holiday weekend.
Be Grateful. Be Free. Be Blessed.