My daughter was learning her manners and just barely past two years old at the time of this conversation:
Mommy, tie shoes PLEASE?
Okay, Honey. And what is the nice word you are going to say to Mommy when she is finished tying your shoes?
DONE, Mommy?
When she had reached fourth grade and was learning about US History (or some of the highlights), she came home one afternoon and asked me:
Mommy, who was president first… Lincoln or Kennedy?
BOING!!!! Help me, God…I’m becoming my mother….
History is REAL. As I learned too quickly, it is REAL for those who lived through the headlines; it only STAYS REAL if SHARED… SO? What to do this Memorial Day?
JUST BE AVAILABLE. While military tributes are on-going across this great land of ours during Memorial Day Weekend, recall that Veterans from WWII, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, Afghanistan and Iraq War will be in attendance; and some of these survivors are not completely healed themselves, yet are there to honor their fallen comrades.
Hence, it is incumbent upon us all to stop and reflect upon the ones who grieve among us. Don’t underestimate the value conveyed in the simplest expressions of a supportive arm or a respectful nod… or a sincerely expressed “Thank you for your service.”