Memorial Day... it's not a holiday

Does anyone remember a time when Memorial Day wasn't just the day that the public pools open or just the 3 day weekend that kicks off the summer season?

Please remember our nation's servicemen, past and present, and the sacrifices they've had and will have to make to secure our freedoms.

Fred Thompson shares his thoughts,

Less than half of college seniors knew that, "We hold these truths to be self evident, that all men are created equal" is from the Declaration of Independence. Less than half knew basic facts about the First Amendment. Half didn't know that the Federalist Papers were written in support of the Constitution's ratification. Only a quarter of seniors knew the purpose of the Monroe Doctrine.

This is our quandary. Memorial Day is about remembering. It’s about remembering those who died for our country; but it's also about remembering why they believed it was worth dying for. Too many Americans, though, have never been taught our own history and heritage. How can you remember something that you’ve never learned?

The Terre Haute Tribune Star had a good write up that emphasized that this day is also a day where Christians everywhere are called to pray. Read the article>>. However, The Ledger's article has the best summation of Memorial day.

In December 2000. . . Congress approved the National Moment of Remembrance, first observed on Memorial Day 2001. It calls for "Americans everywhere to pause for one minute at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by so many to provide freedom for all."

So stop today at 3 o'clock. Reflect on the words of Abraham Lincoln, who reminded us of the importance of honoring those who "laid so costly a sacrifice on the alter of freedom": "The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart … should swell into a mighty chorus of remembrance, gratitude and rededication on this solemn occasion."

Remember, it's never out of style to be patriotic and thankful.