Never forget!

In the United States, today is a federal holiday known as Memorial Day. It is the day our country remembers and honors those in the armed forces that have died serving our country. This is not to be confused with Veterans Day that celebrates all veterans that have served in our country's armed forces. Without those men fighting and giving up their lives, our country would not be the same. 

Unfortunately, some people just look at this day is another federal holiday. People use their day off in different ways. Some get together and have barbecues, some head to the beach, and others sleep late. There is nothing wrong with any of these, but never forget why we have the opportunity to do those things. 

This is a holiday where traditionally we decorate the graves of the deceased soldiers. We fly our flags at half-staff until noon when it rises to the top of the flagpole again. The is a concert that takes place at the US Capitol, and across the country, many cities and towns hold Memorial Day Parades. 

We often say things in life like we will never forget, but as time passes on the memories began to fade. Even Jesus told his disciples at the last supper to do this in memory of me. Shortly after, Peter denied he even knew Jesus. 

The busier our lives become, the harder it is for us to remember. We began focusing on other things. Our focus on the important matters began to blur, and we only see what we want to see. Without Jesus, Christians would never know the freedom they have. Without the armed forces, Americans would not know the freedoms they have now.  

On September 11, 2011, terrorists attacked America including the twin towers. We claimed we would never forget. The country came together to make a stand. Since then, we let division become the norm. We seem to have forgotten that "United We Stand". 

Let us get back to the basics and remember those that have died serving our country. It took people to fight The American Revolution, The War of 1812, The Civil War, The World Wars and many other wars and many lives have been lost.

Look at what you have now. The freedom of speech, the freedom of religion, and the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness all cost something. Remember the cost. It cost many lives, and the men and women who paid that price for us deserve for us to honor and remember them. 

We often take these things for granted. However, I return to my original point. "Never Forget!"