It’s never felt right to say “Happy Memorial Day” when the day is meant to remember those that have paid the ultimate sacrifice, but not acknowledging the day doesn’t seem right either

As a military family, we always honor and appreciate the price others have paid. The loss of those around us has always been felt, but this year knowing and loving families that have been left to pickup the pieces, the holiday hits a little differently.

This Memorial Day I think of sweet friends that are missing their husband and daddy. He may have been gone before our paths crossed, but I just know he’s smiling down from Heaven and so incredibly proud of how they are living their lives and keeping his memory alive in all they do.

I think of the ones that said “goodbye” not knowing it’d be the last. I think of the spouses whose kids will only know their parent through stories and pictures. I think of the parents that will never hold their child again. I think of the empty chairs at kitchen tables. I think about the hearts that shattered from a knock on the door that turned their whole worlds upside down.

At our church, the guest speaker, Lieutenant General Xavier T. Brunson gave a special Memorial Day sermon and shared the following verse:

“Two men will be in the field; one will be taken and the other left.” Matthew 24:20

Hundreds and thousands of brave men and women have answered the call to service, but not all come back.

This day is so much more than the start of summer, barbecues, pool parties, and beach trips, but I also know that these are the very things so many men and women have given their lives for, so that we are able to enjoy ours.

Everyday, but especially today, I hope you take a moment to reflect on and remember them.

“Greater love have no on than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13

xoxo,
Leah