Only in America: do you find such a confusion over how to celebrate a day so designated. It used to be very clear as to what the day was all about - a day set aside, to leave the daily routine to remember those lost in battle - a day to decorate graves - a day to pray for peace - a day to mourn - a day to forgive - a day to celebrate freedom and liberty.
But through the progression of time and the affluence of American society, much of that is gone. Now, young people ask, "What is Memorial Day?" The answers vary. Some will tell them that it is about the beginning of Summer or the kick-off day of the BBQ season. Some sit and watch the Indianapolis 500 auto race on TV. Others, may come close to remembering the real meaning by watching the National Memorial Day Concert on the Public TV station - there, at least, they will get a pretty good idea of it. But, are they participants or just observers?
Very few will go to the grave sites, lay a wreath, set a flag, or pray. Very few will spend most of the day in remembrance of those who gave the sacrifice for the freedoms we now share. No, only in America will the day come and go without the pomp that was once associated with it. Perhaps we have lost sight of the significance, only to embrace the trivial. (I hope it hasn't come to that!)
"A nation can be no greater than the sum of the greatness of its people." Laura Ingalls Wilder
God bless America and may America bless God! This is our only hope for a future. The Old Man in the Bib Overalls
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