As it’s Friday, I’m planning out the family’s agenda for this long weekend. One of the key elements for us will be rest. But there’s Folklife down at the Seattle Center, with that there’s Art Of The Brick at the Pacific Science Center, farmer’s markets, hikes, so very much to do. I want to add one key thing, regarding the reason for the day.
Many cemeteries will have rememberences for our service dead (this one’s in Edmonds, and the one at Washelli in Seattle is thought-provoking). I’ve done many of these over the years. I find them very powerful.
A powerful reminder of the cost of war. Stories of heroism, born of the love of comrades and deep sacrifice. Tied in are tales of deep sadness, of the wrenching loss of sons/daughters, fathers, mothers, friends and siblings. War sizes holes left in lives.
I’ve worked with many vets over the years. All I’ve really done is hang out with these guys, honored their stories, sitting without judgment, with them in their brokenness and pain. For me, at this point in my life, Memorial Day comes with thoughts of those who came home alive in body, and shattered in the soul. For them I harbor a special place in my heart. They are often forgotten between our honoring the dead and fitting in an extra round of golf. With that, evey day 22 veterans commit suicide. I ask you to offer up a prayer for them, however that might look to you. (One way I’ll be doing this is with 22 push-ups. A clever campaign to grow awareness.)
As a Veteran, the son of one, and part of a long lineage of vets, this day is rather sobering. May you pause briefly and remember the cost of war, the joy of peace, and the amazing power of love.
