Memorial Day is a mindset not a fiesta

I may be getting jaded, old or (on a more positive note) maybe gaining a greater appreciation for life, but I have to say the past few days I've found myself becoming increasingly annoyed at the disconnect that exists with Memorial Day. We're inundated with commercials for epic sales on washers and dryers or clothing. There's the gazillion bags of chips and fritos that will line red and white checkered tables this weekend with cases of soda and beer to fuel hydration needs from sea to shining sea. Lots of greetings for Happy Memorial Day and have an awesome weekend salutations. 

As I sit on my front porch enjoying my day off what resonates in the back of my mind is the 'why' I have this day off. I spent a few minutes thinking of the many faces and hearts who will not be with their loved ones. I think of my dear friends, the Leonards, who spend their weekend with the absence of their son, Jared who paid the ultimate sacrifice in giving his life for us. I am thankful for Jared beyond words and as each Memorial Day rolls around I think of his smile, love for his family and country and the amazing man that he was. He gave of himself for us. 

Sometimes it can be more comfortable to not remember, because that can be uncomfortable. But we live in a society mired in comfort, political correctness and softness. In my opinion, reflecting and appreciating make us better as people. So as we honk the horn at the guy taking to long to move after the light has turned green or frustrated at the line at the supermarket or while waiting for our macchiato at the local bean shop; all of these beautiful pleasures in life we enjoy without really connecting how we arrived here. We have freedoms that many across the globe can hardly fathom. 

As you grill your burgers, work on your garden and talk politics over drinks take a few minutes to pause and remember the meaning behind today. There are thousands that won't have their mom, dad, best friend or cousin to play horse shoes with or sit around the fire pit at the end of a long day because their loved one paid the ultimate sacrifice. They gave their lives for our freedom. I am so very grateful to be an American, but today I am humbled to remember the countless who gave their life for my freedoms. Freedom is not free. Take some time to remember and never forget.