"Gone, But Not Forgotten..."

Memorial Day 2008

According to Wikipedia..."Memorial Day is a United States Federal Holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May (observed in 2008 on May 26). It was formerly known as Decoration Day. This holiday commemorates U.S. men and women who have died in military service to their country. It began first to honor Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to include those who died in any war or military action."

Further reading states..."Many people observe this holiday by visiting cemeteries and memorials. A national moment of remembrance takes place at 9 p.m. US Eastern time. Another tradition is to fly the U. S. Flag at half staff from dawn until noon local time. Volunteers place an American flag upon each grave site located in a National Cemetery. It honored the troops who fought in the war and died." Note: The red highlighted items provide further information and other interesting details. Simply click on the topic of choice.

And, lastly, Wikipedia comments that..."In addition to remembrance, Memorial Day is also a time for picnics, barbecues, family gatherings, and sporting events. One of the longest standing traditions is the running of the Indianapolis 500, which has been held in conjunction with Memorial Day since 1911. Some Americans also view Memorial Day as the unofficial beginning of summer."

To me

factual information and details about Memorial day are

definitely important to know...

but for some reason today as I was designing this post

the words seemed so cold, and soul-less, and lacking in heart.

I feel the post needed some emotion...some humanity...

to properly pay tribute to those so honored on this day.

So, in that light, I decided on a personal course of action.

As I display the flag this weekend

I will mourn the great human losses suffered in the name of

freedom.

I will take inventory of my blessings

and

cherish the richness that fills my spirit

and my life.

I will strive to have a heart full of gratitude and peace.

And, maybe, in this small individual way

I will truly honor the lives of those

who came before me and tried to make the world a better place.

Join me if you wish...

I wish you all PEACE...where ever in the world you may live.