We live in a very fast paced world. Too often this day gets clouded by Memorial Day Sales but this is a very sacred and solemn day. It goes back to 1860 after the Civil War but was named a national holiday in 1971. Today we are invited to stop, slow down, and pause so that we can remember why it is a holiday. It is day of mourning, remembering, and recalling that many of our brothers and sisters lay quietly in their graves at peace so that we can have peace. It is a day of contemplation to help us all to remember the incredible cost of freedom.

Death spares no one in any war. Men, women, children, support animals of all races, creeds, colors, sexual identies, or any other distinction In the face of combat all are one; sisters and brothers fighting and dying so that we who are home can enjoy a meal, celebrate a day of rest and pause, and think and ponder about how fortunate we are to be free. It is not about going for a special sale at our local stores but reather it is about remembering our fallen sisters and brothers.

St. Ambrose said “No duty is more urgent than that of returning thanks.”

Sgt. Major Bill Paxton said “May we never forget our fallen comrades. Freedom isn’t free”

We pray: Creator of our faiths, we are all your daughters and sons. Today, many of our brothers and sisters are resting in your glory, freed from the pain of bullets, bombs, etc. Thank you for their blood martydom that gives us freedom. Bless their grieving families and give solice to their friends. Give peace to those families who are still without the remains of their loved ones for their final resting place at home. Assist us in remembering and knowing that we ought not to take for granted the profound gift of our freedom.

Rest in Peace and thank you for giving the ultimate act of love for us all.