This weekend we celebrate Memorial Day in the U.S.  It’s the day we remember those men and women who died serving in the military.   It’s also become a day to honor all of those who were near and dear to our hearts that have passed on.   People place flowers on graves and flags on graves during this holiday to show respect and appreciation to those who have passed.   It’s hard to drive by a cemetery during this holiday and not feel the emotion of how loved and missed people are when you see the flowers and flags every few feet across the cemetery.  It’s heartwarming to see that outpouring of love and its sad at the same time to think of how missed those loved ones are.

I have a little brother who serves in the military and I still remember the day we found out he was getting deployed overseas.  I was so worried and scared that something would happen to him and it really made me appreciate how difficult it is for the military families that have to send their loved ones out, unsure if they will return home safely or not, but at the same time, understanding how important the service they are doing is. I was lucky to have my brother come back home unharmed.  Many are not so lucky.  What a sacrifice that is made by so many who serve and by the families of those who serve.  And to those who pay the ultimate sacrifice of giving their lives in service I can only express my deepest appreciation for them and for those they leave behind to mourn.  Thank you.

One of my favorite songs that relates to Memorial Day is a song that reminds us to appreciate those who have died to protect the freedom and liberty we are so blessed to have in the United States of America.  It is a song by Billy Ray Cyrus called “Some Gave All”.  If you have time this weekend try and listen to it online at some point as the lyrics are beautiful but when put to music they bring a spirit that puts you in a grateful frame of mind for those who gave all…

Some Gave All

I knew a man called him Sandy Kane
Few folks even knew his name
But a hero was he
Left a boy, came back a man
Still many just don’t understand
About the reasons we are free

I can’t forget the look in his eyes
Or the tears he cries
As he said these words to me

All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

Now Sandy Kane is no longer here
But his words are oh so clear
As they echo through out our land
For all his friends who gave us all
Who stood the ground and took the fall
To help their fellow man

Love your country and live with pride
And don’t forget those who died America can’t you see

All gave some and some gave all
And some stood through for the red, white and blue
And some had to fall
And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall
Some gave all

And if you ever think of me
Think of all your liberties and recall, yes recall
Some gave all

As we head into this holiday weekend may there be lots of fun memories made and great time spent enjoying our loved ones.  But may we also take time to show appreciation to those who have given their lives for us and for those who have been left behind.

Have a memorable Memorial Holiday Weekend and I will talk to you again on Tuesday!

~Amy