Family Forum: Memorial Day Honor

Memorial Day weekend signals the start of summer and the time to bust out your white apparel – but not before honoring the federal holiday.

Here's how Wikipedia looks at Memorial day: Begun "as a ritual of remembrance and reconciliation after the Civil War, by the early 20th century, Memorial Day was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as ordinary people visited the graves of their deceased relatives, whether they had served in the military or not. It also became a long weekend increasingly devoted to shopping, family get-togethers, fireworks, trips to the beach, and national media events such as the Indianapolis 500 (since 1911)  and the Coca-Cola 600 (since 1960) auto races.”

Consider those who sacrificed their lives fighting for this country, and their loved ones who also sacrificed the creature comforts of family life so the rest of us can enjoy. It's a stark reminder of the freedoms we take for granted while outside devouring barbeque.

Every family can observe this Memorial Day.

Discuss the importance of Service

Whether community service or military service, both convey a message to work for something outside the confines of home. Discuss why and whether is it important to serve others or your country. Explore how and why the military is important.

Speak to a Veteran

It is always inspiring and educational to speak to someone in military service. Listen to a , ask questions and bring flowers or a present as a token of appreciation for their service.

Honor Your Family  

Every family has “war stories.”Recall your family’s heritage, how your family came to America, and your veterans. Create a family tree or  scrap book. Or interview a family member to learn more. Passing on your family’s legacy is so important for the future of your family. Remembering is the key to not forgetting.

Celebrate Life

Since my son was over Memorial Day weekend, it signifies a time of celebration. While we remember the dead, we must also honor the living. Death, birth and rebirth is the natural cycle of this life. With military service, some die so others can live or a cause can be championed. Let it not be for naught.

Celebrate Community

We are a village. The is filled with teachable moments for your youngsters. Adina Genn describes it this way: “At the parade, it is all about community. Veterans always get rounds of applause, as do our fire fighters, police, volunteers from St. Francis, other civic organizations and community leaders. Also, there are floats, the high school marching band, athletes and cheerleaders. For a child it's like a feast of what you could grow up to be.”

Start your summer with a bang by taking in the at Bar Beach. Be grateful that the loud explosions in the air give off beautiful light displays rather than a hail storm of gun fire and bombs.