ITS MORE THAN BBQ and BEER! REALLY!!?

Does anyone know what Memorial Day is really all about? Our brains are wired since childhood memories, that it's about family and friends sharing burnt meat on a grill as Bill and Mary get plowed with homemade Margaritas!



 * Does anybody realize the true reason we celebrate this Day, why we are off work and school, why it's a day of reflection for all Americans? Would you pass a pop quiz? I, alike many people, have family members who sacrificed their time and life for the benefit of this country, as military personal.


 *I have family who suffered for years with shrapnel embedded in their bodies, difficulty sleeping and bouts of emotional upheavals or reclusiveness. They also have medals of honor and military uniforms hanging in their closets.

 * I have worked with men and women who have fought wars to defend our country and freedom as well as those who patched up the war torn in battle. I have heard their stories of bravery and valor and shed tears with them as they recalled their experiences of death and destruction. I have seen their pride in doing all this and helped many of them attempt a " normal" life again after returning as a civilian. It has been a truly humbling experience.

*So..how do we honor these heroes from wars most don't even know about much less remember? How do we celebrate their sacrifices and many disabilities they now deal with from being a dedicated and true citizen of this country? How do we show them gratitude and thankfulness?

 
*Well..we throw a steak on the barbie, slug down some brews and watch sports or sit and throw the bull for awhile with friends and family. Not exactly an act of gratitude or thankfulness... more like an excuse to not work and have fun.


*And that's OK..but...its so very vital to remember and teach the true meaning of this day. Its about our heroes! Local, family and community...its about honoring these men and women who sacrificed so you can put your meat on your barbie and slug down those brews and have family and friends over for a party.

 *To add...am I saying you shouldn't enjoy your day off doing whatever you want? No!

 
* I'm reminding you that its because of these selfless brave and committed men and women that you have that freedom. Remember that as you eat, drink and party on Memorial Day. Call someone who you know that is a veteran. Tell them thank you. Visit a home for the aged and see who is a veteran there and give them a random card of thanks.

 *Send mail to our soldiers still employed oversees or in the states...there are many ways to do this..Google it...ask around! There are so many ways you can show appreciation and gratitude much more meaningfully than slugging down beer and eating BBQ food. Use your imagination.

 
*It just irks me when I see the real and true meaning of this holiday go by the wayside. Please remember our men and women and let them know you care and are grateful for them. Let the families know of those who have sacrificed their lives..or who have passed with time..We owe it to them..each and everyone. So, involve the kids in this new way of celebrating a day of honoring our military.


 * Just do it! Then have the burnt steaks and ice cold brews and family/ friend's company. You will feel good about it, even if you don't agree with war or political policies...we are honoring People..who gave to this country for You and Me...and I Am Grateful, that I can write this on here with freedom to live my life as I see fit. Thank you military men and women. I HONOR YOU on Memorial Day and.... Everyday! Your sacrifices are acknowledged!

                                         God Bless!