Memorial Day 2021
On this Memorial Day of 2021, let us take time to be inspired by those who gave their all for our nation, so that we will have renewed strength and courage to do the same.
I took a ride this morning to the cemetery. I went to see the flags next to the graves of those who served our nation so valiantly and so strongly.
As the sun rose, I thought about those who can no longer speak for themselves, yet next to their grave is an American flag.
I also thought about you. I don’t know who you are, or the pain you still suffer as you mourn a lost loved one, friend, or comrade in arms, but please know that a grateful nation mourns with you.
Thank you to those who fought and died defending the best ideals of our nation. Thank you to those who gave their all, very far from home, whose hopes and dreams were cut short by the harsh realities of war.
Thank you also to those who mourn the loss of a loved one today. While our prayers and good intentions can never replace your loss, as hard as today might be for you, please know that I, and many others, are also praying for you.
I also asked Mom yesterday if she recalled a Memorial Day that stood out in her mind because this day meant a lot to Dad. She recalled about 50 years ago, when I was 7 or 8, when I and my siblings, cousins, and grandparents watched Dad raise the flag, on the flagpole in front of our house, something Dad proudly did on most national holidays.
Mom says that what stuck in her mind, as she watched out the window while making breakfast, was what she called the ‘ragtag group gathered in the front of our house,' organized by a man who never lost an opportunity to honor the nation that he loved. She reflected how over the years she had wished many times she had taken a picture of that special morning.
As I attended the Memorial Day weekend ceremony yesterday here in Scottsville, I thought of the patriotism that Dad passed on to me. I was heartened to see the deep love of country, honor, duty, and sacrifice thriving amongst the veterans assembled and all those who took part in the event. (If you’d like to see 2 small clips from that event, go to Youtube and type in Scottsville Memorial Day 2021 Dan Gritsko)
No matter where you live, take time today, amidst the events of this weekend to recall American heroes of the past, who are no longer here to tell their story. On this Memorial Day of 2021, let us take time to be inspired by those who gave their all for our nation, so that we will have renewed strength and courage to do the same.