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Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

28/05/2018

“As America celebrates Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have given their lives in our nation’s wars.” John M. McHugh

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day #memorialday

 


AMAZING GRACE (Bag Pipes)

I have long believed that sacrifice is the pinnacle of patriotism. Bob Riley
These fallen heroes represent the character of a nation who has a long history of patriotism and honor – and a nation who has fought many battles to keep our country free from threats of terror. Michael N. Castle
We should guard their graves with sacred vigilance. … Let pleasant paths invite the coming and going of reverent visitors and fond mourners. Let no neglect, no ravages of time, testify to the present or to the coming generations that we have forgotten as a people the cost of a free and undivided republic. Maj. Gen. John A. Logan

What is Memorial Day? In brief, it is a day dedicated to the remembrance of our service men and women who paid the ultimate sacrifice in defense of this great nation. It is a celebration of the lives of Veterans who returned home from war carrying the memories of comrades lost in battles at home and places far flung. The unofficial version finds its origins in a commemoration held by freed African Americans in spring of 1865 and how that led to what we now celebrate. However, the official version of Memorial Day found its earliest beginnings on May 5, 1868, when Maj. Gen. John A. Logan, as head of the Union veterans, declared that the graves of fallen soldiers should be decorated, every May 30, with flowers in honor of their sacrifice. The recommendation at the time was specific to that war and, eventually, it spread to include all wars in America and all wars Americans fought around the world. Today, we celebrate it for the fallen, their families, surviving veterans, and those who were/are POW/MIA.

What about Decoration Day? Because the original directive from Gen Logan was to decorate the graves of the fallen with flowers, it was called Decoration Day. Over the years, Memorial Day gradually caught on; first in 1966, when Congress and President Lyndon Johnson declared Waterloo, N.Y., the “birthplace” of Memorial Day, and then, in 1971, when Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress.  In December 2000, the U.S. Congress passed a remembrance bill and President Clinton signed into law “The National Moment of Remembrance Act,” P.L. 106-579. The idea behind the Moment of Remembrance came from No Greater Love founder, Carmella LaSpada, who wanted us all to stop whatever we were doing at 3pm and spend a minute of reflection and gratitude for those who died at war. Carmella saw it as a way to make us put the memorial back into this special day. I concur.

REMEMBRANCE: Requiem for Memorial Day 2009
Reflections on Memorial Day: Of War and Peace… 2010
NYT: News about Memorial Day, including commentary and archival articles
Memorial Day: Remembrance and Reflections 2011
Memorial Day: Honor, Salute & Celebrate… 2012
Gratitude: Remembering Maya Angelou 2014
Motivation Mondays: Honoring SERVICE 2015
Motivation Mondays: Memorial Day 2016
Motivation Mondays: Honoring Memorial Day 2017

 

“The willingness of America’s veterans to sacrifice for our country has earned them our lasting gratitude.” Jeff Miller

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

 


Taps

Memorial Day isn’t just about honoring veterans, its honoring those who lost their lives. Veterans had the fortune of coming home. For us, that’s a reminder of when we come home we still have a responsibility to serve. It’s a continuation of service that honors our country and those who fell defending it. Pete Hegseth

How Do we Observe Memorial Day? How Could we Observe it? In the years I’ve lived in the USA, I’ve observed, in many quarters, that Memorial Day is celebrated as a long weekend off work and the start of beach and BBQ season. There are parades to attend, Veterans to greet and applaud, and special sales and bargains to find. Frankly, I suspect that some folks don’t give the actual gravity of the occasion much thought. Yet, it is key to our unity, freedom and safety. Plus, if we make the commitment to learn about Memorial Day, we would give it the reverence and gratitude it deserves. As I worked on this post, I was thinking about tips to share on how we can observe this day in a more meaningful way with our friends and family. Fortunately, I came across an article that offered six tips that would give all of us a chance to not only honor the fallen but learn more about the occasion.

How Could we Observe Memorial Day? For starters, read up on it by visiting the VA website. Stay current by checking out the NYTimes Memorial Day commentary and archival articles section. Then read these Memorial Day tips offered below and plan with your friends/family to honor some  or all of them:
Visit local cemeteries and place flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.
Visit memorial sites near you.
Fly the U.S. Flag at half-staff until noon.
Fly the ‘POW/MIA Flag’ as well (Section 1082 of the 1998 Defense Authorization Act).
Participate in a “National Moment of Remembrance”: at 3 p.m.(your time) by pausing and thinking about the true meaning of the day, and arrange for Taps to be played.
Renew/Make a pledge to aid the widows, widowers, and orphans of our fallen heroes/heroines, and to aid disabled veterans.

 

The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for APR 2018/MAY 2018 are:

APRIL

03/04 – Women’s History Month, National Nutrition Month, Irish-American Heritage Month, American Red Cross Month, 08 International Women’s Day, World Kidney Day, 04 Academy Awards
03/11 – 11 Daylight Savings, 14 Pi Day, 15 World Consumer Rights Day, 17 St Patrick’s Day
03/18 – 19 St Joseph, 20 International Day of Happiness, 21 World poetry Day, 22 World Water day, 24 Earth Hour
03/25 – Palm Sunday, 29 Holy Thursday, 30 Good Friday, 31 Passover

MAY

05/06   –  01 May Day, 03, National Day of Prayer, 03 World Press Freedom Day, 04 Star Wars, 05 Cinco De Mayo
05/13  –  13 HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY,  16 Ramadan starts, 19 Armed Forces Day,
05/20  –   20 Pentecost Day,  23 World Turtle Day, 24 National Brother Day
05/27  –   28 Memorial Day,  30 World MS Day,  31 World No Tobacco Day

 

Are You Looking for Ways to Stay Creative in 2018?

post-a-week-2017-md
– Join the Daily Post Post-a-day or Post-a-week Challenge.
BHWritingLab_052016_post_PROMPT1A

— Join the BlogHer Writing Lab

 

More Below!
“There is nothing nobler than risking your life for your country.” Nick Lampson

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

Motivation Mondays: Observing Memorial Day

 


Bob Marley War live

On Memorial Day, I don’t want to only remember the combatants. There were also those who came out of the trenches as writers and poets, who started preaching peace, men and women who have made this world a kinder place to live. Eric Burdon
A man’s country is not a certain area of land, of mountains, rivers, and woods, but it is a principle and patriotism is loyalty to that principle. George William Curtis

Since the inception of this blog, I have always made an extra effort to write a Memorial Day post not only because my Dad was a reserve in some ancient war but also, because I value PEACE. War and Peace walk in tandem; they are like two birds forced to feed off the table of good and evil wrought by man. When one sleeps, the other rises and the struggle to find world peace and balance continues. Every year, our service men and women commit to lay down their lives in defense of their fellow citizens and there is no greater sacrifice than that. Honoring the lives of those lost is significant because it forces us to remember the cost of war, to work together to ensure that we cherish the freedoms we enjoy, and because freedom comes with a high price tag for those who protect us by defending it. Let us always remember the fallen and show our gratitude by honoring their memory every year.

In Flanders Fields by John McCrae via emory.edu
In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

 

Have a happy, peaceful and productive week ahead!

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Positive Motivation Tip: Remember to honor all who served and lost their lives so we can live free.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM
Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to compliment the page. It serves as another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.

Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, use WordPress’ integrated tool on your blog or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM

Related Posts

 

PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS: All Photos,  Memorial Day via Pixabay,  AND/OR  Memorial Day via  Wikipedia

 

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

 

178 Comments leave one →
  1. Neha Rajadhyaksha permalink
    28/05/2018 12:59 pm

    There is so much we have to be grateful for. We salute all the amazing souls that gave their lives so that we could live in peace

  2. thegentlemanracer permalink
    28/05/2018 4:58 pm

    Such an important day, so many people have lost the meaning of it. Thanks to all those who died in service to the USA.

  3. Explore The 6 permalink
    28/05/2018 9:12 pm

    I value Peace as well. Thank you for writing this post, we shall never forget this day!

  4. Gladys Parker permalink
    28/05/2018 9:45 pm

    I feel congress should give the people, actually they did Labor Day, a holiday off in which to hoot n holler, picnic, gather, party, celebrate summer and give back Decoration Day, Memorial Day to those who gave their life or at least offered to (by going into the military.) I see or hear so little of gratitude for these men and now women that offer up their lives so that Americans can have the freedom to hoot n holler, gather in peace, party and celebrate.

  5. livingbreely permalink
    28/05/2018 8:02 pm

    Wow, what a beautiful testament to an important American holiday! I love that you included so much background and history on the day! Well done.

  6. Stephanie Ortega permalink
    28/05/2018 11:46 pm

    What a great post, thank you for sharing this! My brother is in the armed forces so Memorial Day and Veteran’s Day are very important in my home.

  7. Geraline Batarra permalink
    29/05/2018 12:55 am

    This is such a nice post and I hope everyone of us should always remember and never forget those people who give their all to fight for our freedom. Thank you for sharing this with us.

  8. Nati permalink
    29/05/2018 3:19 am

    Being a non-American and living in Europe, I often have to google the meaning of US festivities, such is the commercial overload of offers discounts that I receive. But rarely someone ever mention what the holiday is actually celebrating! I appreciate that you bring this subject and explain us the deep meaning of this holiday.

  9. kumamonjeng permalink
    29/05/2018 5:18 am

    Thanks for sharing the Memorial Day this week. I have a better understand why this day is celebrated in America and how we observe Memorial Day.

  10. Indu permalink
    29/05/2018 6:20 am

    “Remember to honor all who served and lost their lives so we can live free” your motivation tip is so befitting on this glorious day. Like immensely your write up as tribute on Memorial Day.

  11. Cristina Pettersen Carpio permalink
    29/05/2018 11:51 am

    I love the bottom line of this post and your celebration of Memorial day being mainly focused on the importance of standing for peace. Love it.

  12. Geraline Batarra permalink
    29/05/2018 7:10 pm

    Such a nice quote we should always remember those people who gave their lives for the sake of our freedom and democracy.

  13. Brandy (@brandyellen) permalink
    29/05/2018 4:48 pm

    I didn’t see as many people observing this day this year. I do know that my youngest child had a presentation on Thursday for Memorial Day that I went downtown to watch. Was neat to watch the kids play songs around our memorial statue downtown.

  14. Kate Andrews permalink
    29/05/2018 7:14 pm

    You’ve left some beautiful photos and sentiments in honor of this special day. Thanks for reminding us it’s about more than cookouts.

  15. Marielle Altenor permalink
    29/05/2018 8:51 pm

    Super grateful for the ones that served and lost their lives doing so. I do wish it was so commercialized though. When I stayed in Florida a few years ago, Memorial Day has always been a long weekend of BBQ and picnics at the beach.

  16. Sigrid Says Blog permalink
    30/05/2018 12:52 am

    Happy Memorial Day, US of America! It is always great to remember what our heroes did.

  17. rhianwestbury permalink
    29/05/2018 10:52 pm

    As I’m not from the US I didn’t actually really know what Memorial Weekend was so thanks for the info x

  18. Sam permalink
    29/05/2018 11:08 pm

    Those are really great ways to commemorate Memorial Day and to remember what the holiday is actually about instead of the unofficial start to the summer season.

  19. kaiffeinated permalink
    29/05/2018 11:57 pm

    You know… I’m ashamed to admit that I looked forward to Memorial Days more because it’s another day off. “We would give it the reverence and gratitude it deserves” and you are right. I feel foolish, but I definitely learned a lot from your post. Thank you for bringing the importance of Memorial Day back to light.

  20. wordsofntemid permalink
    30/05/2018 12:03 am

    Wow….this is love at it’s prime! #MemorialDay

    I celebrate every person that has stood on the line, with a gun, for others…..

  21. ali raza permalink
    30/05/2018 1:18 am

    Undoubtedly a great day to observe in America, it shows the importance of that day in USA

  22. littlefootadventures (@littlefootworld) permalink
    30/05/2018 3:35 am

    It’s good that a country never stop celebrate the lives lost to protect their own people! A great tribute and I’m sure the families get really honored as well!

  23. Dana permalink
    30/05/2018 6:40 am

    Happy Mmeorial day to everyone. Tihis is a great day to remember the heroism of the people who fight and gave their lives for our country,

  24. Evelyn, PathofPresence permalink
    30/05/2018 5:28 am

    Our nation would not be where it is today without the sacrifices of so many who have come before us. Love your photos and insightful research about the background of memorial day. Thank you for raising consciousness!

  25. wanderlustbykelley permalink
    30/05/2018 6:23 am

    This is so beautifully written. A nice way to showcases the importance of memorial day and why we should care. Also, I had no idea about decoration day, so thank you for bringing this to my attention.

  26. Life With Mojita permalink
    30/05/2018 6:35 am

    This is so close to home for me. Thank you for sharing it’s history, I did not know the unofficial version was of African Americans being freed. A lot of people also say thank you to those who are serving and have served, but I thought it was for those that have given the ultimate price? And the former is Veteran’s Day.

  27. GiGi Eats Celebrities permalink
    30/05/2018 6:44 am

    So many people forget what Memorial Day is truly about – I certainly take a minute to thank those who are served and dedicate my burger to them too!

  28. sue-Tanya permalink
    30/05/2018 9:57 am

    It’s great that there is a day designated to remembering the brave soldiers who risked their lives. Heroes should be celebrated. Happy memorial day.

  29. thehudsonhornetsite permalink
    30/05/2018 7:32 am

    Beautiful post! My Grandfather was an Army Veteran and I thought about him all weekend. This is truly a great holiday to reflect on the freedoms that many have died for and to always remember them and their sacrifices!

  30. Chandler permalink
    30/05/2018 7:36 am

    Such a lovely and thorough look at the history of Memorial Day. I can honestly say that I had not known the official history behind why we celebrate other than remembrance of the brave men and women who have put their life on the line to protect our country.

  31. Esme Sy permalink
    30/05/2018 11:09 am

    It’s the first I’ve heard of that good trivia about Decoration day and what it’s supposed to mean. I pay my respects to all those who have served their country from the bottom of their heart.

  32. tenzendude permalink
    30/05/2018 8:21 am

    First time i have read the back story on Memorial Day. Very interesting. We have a similar celebration in Canada called Remembrance Day.

  33. Corina permalink
    30/05/2018 11:58 am

    Those who return with so many memories will never be the same again. It mush be hell living with such pain inside. And Memorial Day is of great importance. Families must know that those who dies for their country will never be forgotten!

  34. Ithfifi Williams / IthinityBeauty permalink
    30/05/2018 11:58 am

    I didn’t much about memorial day or Decoration day as we don’t celebrate those in England (or we do but our own version) I found this so interesting. I think its so important to pay our respects and grattitude to all those serving and who have served.

  35. Luci Cook permalink
    30/05/2018 12:36 pm

    I didn’t know that Memorial Day dates back that far. It is important observe it for those who are served.

  36. justbusylovinglife permalink
    30/05/2018 5:44 pm

    Beautiful post and beautiful pictures. So grateful for all of those who sacrifice so much for our freedom. This is a great tribute to them.

  37. Kansas Bonanno permalink
    30/05/2018 3:26 pm

    Thank you so much to those who lost their lives to make sure my children don’t ever have to worry about their freedom.

  38. Amandela, It's a pleasure to meet you! permalink
    30/05/2018 3:55 pm

    Wow! I did not realize all the history behind memorial day and this is just a brief overview of what it is. It’s crazy…my husband just asked if I really knew what Memorial Day was about and I ignorantly told him yes, we are just honoring the soldiers that are living. Boy, was I wrong.

  39. Meghan permalink
    30/05/2018 4:25 pm

    We should always remember those who stood up for our country so we could be free. Great post

  40. Lara | Grits in the City permalink
    30/05/2018 7:36 pm

    Love the detailed reminder of the true meaning of the holiday. So many companies reached out with newsletters over the weekend referencing “Happy Memorial Day” to me which always feels offputting. It’s so important to pause and remember the role all our hardworking service men and women have played in helping us get to where we are today.

  41. itsnadianelson permalink
    30/05/2018 7:50 pm

    I am one of those, I am ashamed to say, that you mentioned that look forward to the long weekend, BBQs, and time with family. Your post sheds light on its true meaning and poses me to look at the day differently.

  42. Eloise permalink
    30/05/2018 8:26 pm

    great post to educate about the history of Memorial Day! I think it’s important to show our appreciation to those who fought for our country (those who passed and those who survived) … I have a few close friends who have fought more than once in war and it is very hard on them afterward. One of my best guy friends has PTSD because of it and last month tried to commit suicide… he’s in treatment now and getting the help he needs… but it’s a definite reminder that we need to show our thanks and salute those who have seen unbearable amount of hate, fear and death, it’s not easy for them!

  43. Deb B. permalink
    30/05/2018 11:40 pm

    I genuinely appreciate this heartfelt post. It’s true, we need to educate ourselves about the meaning behind Memorial Day. You have such a profound outlook on this very important day And I love that you’re offering ideas on how to commemorate the occasion other than seeing it as yet another long weekend for bbqs and celebration.

  44. ninalehan21 permalink
    31/05/2018 3:42 am

    wow, i love the sincerity and the passion in your writing. it is true. we should value and appreciate peace 🙂 Cherish the freedom we enjoy 🙂

  45. Preet permalink
    31/05/2018 9:19 am

    Honoring the lives of those who lost theirs for us and the nation is the sign of care and pride we feel for our fellow countrymen. Such a beautiful post to honor them!

  46. Karlyn Cruz permalink
    31/05/2018 11:23 am

    I love this post. I think it’s so important for us to truly learn to appreciate Memorial Day and it’s so much more significant than many people realize. There were families and loved ones lost for our freedom and I think sometimes we tend to take that for granted.

  47. MELANIE EDJOURIAN permalink
    31/05/2018 12:19 pm

    It’s important to remember those that have lost their lives to help protect others. It’s a shame we have all lost so many good people.

  48. Cristina permalink
    31/05/2018 6:32 pm

    Thank you for this call to peace though this and all your posts

  49. Anvita Bhatnagar Mistry permalink
    31/05/2018 7:47 pm

    great way to remember the people who served this country. just like you I value peace too.

  50. Joanna permalink
    31/05/2018 11:47 pm

    Very interesting information – I didn’t know how Memorial Day is celebrated in US.

  51. Doreen Pinto permalink
    01/06/2018 3:12 am

    I don’t believe in Wars and fighting for no crazy reason. Its just not right in today’s day and age where humanity has the knowledge to rise above petty thoughts.

  52. Damares permalink
    01/06/2018 5:50 am

    That’s a beautiful celebration.

  53. London Mumma permalink
    01/06/2018 6:35 am

    Honestly we should be so thankful to all those that went out there and fought for us and our country. Whilst I am not an American, we to had our British troops fight for our rights.

  54. Daisy permalink
    02/06/2018 6:30 am

    This has been such a hectic few weeks that I actually forgot it was Memorial Day…. I don’t know how with all of the ads etc that are everywhere but it’s just been hectic… Iam truly grateful though for the men and women who give and have given their lives for our safety and freedom…

  55. Cia Black permalink
    02/06/2018 10:12 am

    Memorial day holds such a special place in my heart.Prior to my military services I thought it was just about the three day weekend, but after enlisting it became so much more. I try my hardest to help my children understand the day.

  56. Razena permalink
    02/06/2018 2:01 pm

    This is the first time I have actually read anything about the origins and purpose of Memorial Day, so thanks for sharing. Everything else has usually only mentioned the long weekend and sales.

  57. Remo permalink
    02/06/2018 10:39 pm

    Soldiers are backbone of any country and we should never forget their sacrifice. Important post.

  58. Clarice Lao | Camping for Women permalink
    03/06/2018 9:25 am

    I have too much respect to our fallen heroes. My family and I are celebrating this special day to give thanks to everyone who had scarified their lives.

  59. toastycritic permalink
    03/06/2018 5:30 pm

    I’m with you. Having a moment of silence where everyone stops and does nothing, forcing us to remember what was done for us would be a great way to bring back the remembrance.

    • Eliz@MirthandMotivation permalink*
      04/06/2018 1:58 am

      I concur…

  60. Yeah Lifestyle permalink
    04/06/2018 4:05 am

    What an informative post sharing all the details about memorial day, I love the amount of effort you put into each post and the hours you spend researching it in detail.

  61. notquitesupermommn permalink
    04/06/2018 7:33 am

    This post offers such a great source of information to those that may not know a lot about Memorial Day and why it is celbrated. I think you are spot on, many view it as just a long weekend that kicks off BBQ/beach season. It is, however, an imporant day that we should all stop at celebrate in a way that honors those that have sacraficed so much for our freedom.

  62. Daisy permalink
    04/06/2018 7:45 am

    Having a moment of silence definitely shows respect…It’s a wonderful idea!

  63. thebetterlyf permalink
    04/06/2018 3:23 pm

    These individuals are heroes and deserve to be remembered, and celebrated like the true heroes they are.

  64. Komal permalink
    04/06/2018 5:00 pm

    There needs to be more than just one day a year to remember the lives that were lost for our freedom.

  65. steph dorworth permalink
    04/06/2018 2:25 pm

    Thank you for always educating us readers. I never knew what tradition started Memorial Day- decorating the graves of fallen soldiers. It’s so important to remember them and be grateful for their dedication to our country.

  66. Deborah Regen permalink
    04/06/2018 6:40 pm

    You are very right in your observation that the true purpose and meaning behind the Memorial Day holiday is lost on a large number of Americans today. Which is a shame because our military is mostly made up of volunteers today (no draft like in the Vietnam War) and it seems only their families understand the sacrifices active military members or veterans have made.

  67. thebusyboymama permalink
    04/06/2018 8:49 pm

    This is beautiful. I don’t hear about Decoration Day. Silence without technology is a great reminder for people to reflect.

  68. Aditinona permalink
    04/06/2018 11:26 pm

    I always believe that one shouldn’t forget what others have done for us, being grateful is the most humble thing that we can do, and this kind of remembrance for those who gave their lives is totally deserving and the least that we can do for them

  69. Noelle Lynne permalink
    05/06/2018 3:07 am

    Happy to hear that one of your main reasons for writing the blog and this memorial day post is because you value peace!

  70. Chuck permalink
    05/06/2018 6:54 am

    I hope people got to appreciate people who have died to have what we have now – our freedom. God bless to all of them.

  71. Alison Rost permalink
    05/06/2018 5:51 am

    It’s not just about bbqs and gatherings, it’s definitely about celebrating the lives of those who gave so much to protect our country. It’s recognizing all their efforts and sacrifices.

  72. lilthoughtswithjen permalink
    05/06/2018 6:21 am

    I love this reminder on what this day is all about!
    xx Jen

  73. Sharon Chen (@StSmartKitchen) permalink
    05/06/2018 7:45 am

    Thanks for sharing these, now I am familiar with what Memorial Day really is.

  74. Sarah’s Sage Advice permalink
    05/06/2018 8:55 am

    Love the post. It’s definitely something to remember and be respectful of.

  75. Azlin Bloor permalink
    05/06/2018 10:46 am

    Brilliant post for something we should always remember. It’s a shame that the younger generation don’t seem to appreciate this great sacrifice, unless they have someone in service.

  76. MELANIE EDJOURIAN permalink
    05/06/2018 11:29 am

    Wow I didn’t realise people celebrated this over the course of a whole weekend. The parades must be nice to attend and remember with others.

  77. ninalehan21 permalink
    05/06/2018 12:20 pm

    i agree with you. we should definitely put a time aside for the ones that are lost. it shows respect and gratitude

  78. fashionandstylepolice permalink
    05/06/2018 2:09 pm

    Great history here. I didn’t know any of these information here. Good to know more about Memorial Day and the how it is observed.

  79. Melanie permalink
    05/06/2018 5:23 pm

    Ive never heard of decoration day before. I learned a lot from this post. I love the suggestions you gave on how to celebrate memorial day as well. Thank you for this.

  80. Blair Villanueva permalink
    05/06/2018 7:58 pm

    We remember for all our great heroes. They deserve huge respects and they sacrifices are beyond words.

  81. 06/06/2018 12:18 am

    I think we need more of this! We definitely do! Please!

  82. Bhushavali permalink
    05/06/2018 10:18 pm

    I was recently talking about remembrance day to a lady here and talking about the significance of poppy flowers in UK when we crossed a garden of poppies here. Esp, this year, since its the last year of the WWI centenary, visiting the various memorials is indeed a very somber and special thing to do.

  83. Denni permalink
    06/06/2018 6:18 am

    great post ! i feel that sometimes people forget what is actually celebrated and it just become a “day off”. i love the silence moment

  84. Holly Lasha permalink
    06/06/2018 8:19 am

    I love memorial day. My kids always get excited for the parades and the festivities.

  85. Love, Life & the little one permalink
    07/06/2018 12:43 am

    My thoughts are with you. From Dubai

  86. Michele Dennis permalink
    07/06/2018 12:30 pm

    We observe Memorial Day by having a family BBQ/celebration of life to honor, remember and celebrate the lives of all those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country. Which in our house does include a moment of silence for the fallin before we eat. We have a table that is also decorated with flags from every branch of military and pictures of every relative that didn’t come home and those that did but died do to complications from what they endured and were exposed to while serving..

  87. Iya - Louisa permalink
    07/06/2018 12:50 pm

    What great ways to remember and a beautiful post! I hope you had an amazing memorial weekend celebrating your dad and all others

  88. Kim Lee (@KimsCravings) permalink
    07/06/2018 6:02 pm

    Memorial Day is such an important holiday to honor and really think about the reason for the holiday. I love all of the photos that you included in this post. A great way to remember those that lost their lives for our freedom.

  89. TravelTips permalink
    11/06/2018 2:45 pm

    Every nation celebrates the memorial remembering the ones who has lost their life in wars, but no nation stops the war.

  90. Ann Snook permalink
    06/07/2018 12:12 pm

    As a general rule, I like peace more than war. But it is so important to remember those who gave their lives so that we can enjoy the way we live today.

  91. kidneyfornikki permalink
    01/06/2021 7:22 am

    I really hadn’t looked into the origins of Memorial Day until this year. I didn’t know that freed Africans actually “unofficially” started it.

  92. Gleefulblogger permalink
    01/06/2021 8:02 am

    We all need a moment of silence to remember those who left us, such service keep the memories of Supreme sacrifice fresh in our minds and heart filled with gratitude.

  93. Agnes Dela Cruz permalink
    01/06/2021 6:11 pm

    Salute to all who courageously fought for the country! Much appreciated.

  94. Blair Villanueva permalink
    01/06/2021 10:44 pm

    Huge respect to many heroes out there, and for all their sacrifices. Huge respect as well to their families and love ones.

  95. Ramil Hinolan permalink
    01/06/2021 11:35 pm

    It is but fitting to honor and remember the people who defended our country in one way or the other. Heroes are honorable men and women..

  96. Lyosha Varezhkina permalink
    01/06/2021 11:58 pm

    It is awesome US has such a day to honor people who lost their lives in the service of the country. It reminds us how important it is to keep peace.

  97. Ann permalink
    02/06/2021 1:24 am

    I do think its beautiful and peaceful, but then again I cant belive that mankind has to be sacrificed like that just to make peace… that’s just sad.

  98. Eileen Mendoza Loya permalink
    02/06/2021 1:34 am

    This day is not about having fun, getting drunk, or having backyard BBQs. This day is meant to honor and remember our fallen soldiers. It should be celebrated with prayer and giving thanks to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice so that we can have this freedom we enjoy today.

  99. Cristina Vanthul permalink
    02/06/2021 2:02 am

    Nice, comprehensive explanation of Memorial Day and our traditions regarding it. I was happy to see you included the very first instance of a Memorial Day in 1865. I would love to see that become the “official” first and commemorate ALL of our fallen soldiers through history.

  100. Ben permalink
    02/06/2021 2:04 am

    Our servicemen and women have given so much. Some of them have given everything. It’s so important to remember that.

  101. Kuntala permalink
    02/06/2021 2:05 am

    So many men and women have paid the ultimate price to protect the United States. Remembering that sacrifice is the highest honor that can be given to them.

  102. Michele @ ourredonkulouslife permalink
    02/06/2021 2:59 am

    I make it a point to say thank you to anyone and everyone I notice that served our country. Not a lot of them get the appreciation they deserve.

  103. Gervin Khan permalink
    02/06/2021 3:25 am

    It’s definitely an special day to all American people to commemorate the brave and loyal men and women who sacrifice themselves for the benefits of many. It’s such a great feeling that a country to honor and give tributes to all their fallen heroes that gives what they have now.

  104. Bryan Carey permalink
    02/06/2021 3:40 am

    Good to know more about the history of this holiday. Most of us know what it’s all about, but have no idea how Memorial Day came to be.

  105. olga permalink
    02/06/2021 3:58 am

    Thank you for such detailed article! I`m Russian and Memorial Day is still just another weekend for me, because we have our own memorial day ( May 9th). But I`ll use your article as Memorial Day guide now

  106. aisasami permalink
    02/06/2021 4:13 am

    Happy Memorial Day! It is important day to remember those who died protecting our country. It is a very solemn day, but lets cherish their lives too!

  107. kidneyfornikki permalink
    02/06/2021 5:36 am

    I like your statement about remembering the people who sacrificed in war because it reminds us about the cost of war. Since most of us aren’t involved personally, it is so easy to forget about the actual cost. Thanks for the reminder!

  108. twinklersinmyeyesa permalink
    02/06/2021 5:50 am

    These memorial days are really very important. These are celebrated for the sacrifices of the people in defense of the nation. It is a beautiful way to celebrate the live of the service men who returned home including all the wars which were fought around the world.

  109. WanderlustBeautyDreams permalink
    02/06/2021 9:14 am

    It’s important to reflect back on holidays like this and take a moment of silence. I think some people forget what holidays like this actually mean and it’s good to recognize those who risked their lives.

  110. Natalie permalink
    02/06/2021 9:53 am

    Thanks for sharing different ways that we can observe Memorial Day. It’s so easy to just let it pass by as another day to have a BBQ with your family.

  111. Emily Fata permalink
    02/06/2021 10:47 am

    It’s important to pay tribute to those who have laid down their lives for us. Recently, and throughout history.

  112. Brianna permalink
    02/06/2021 2:37 pm

    I’m with you! My family had a moment of silence, thinking about all those heroes!

  113. Doris Jean permalink
    02/06/2021 2:42 pm

    This was a grest post and it is important that we know that Memorial Day is much more than a long weekend!

  114. Rosey permalink
    02/06/2021 3:10 pm

    My son was in Caisson and they put flags on the graves. It gave me a new appreciation for something that was already important to me. Memorial Day is an important day for all of us in one way or another.

  115. knycx permalink
    02/06/2021 5:55 pm

    It is about the time of the year to pay tribute to those who fight for peace and protected us from harm. Thank you for the motivation and great words. – Knycx Journeying

  116. Kenneth permalink
    02/06/2021 6:49 pm

    Belated Memorial day weekend greetings to all! Thank you for keeping memories alive here

  117. Dr. Elise Ho permalink
    02/06/2021 7:44 pm

    It is good to see such a thorough post about what Memorial Day truly means. It can help many to understand better.

  118. Alita Pacio permalink
    02/06/2021 8:24 pm

    I appreciate your post about memorial day. I barely know about this.

  119. Krizzia Scollon permalink
    02/06/2021 9:48 pm

    Hope you had a great celebration my friend!

  120. emman damian permalink
    02/06/2021 10:59 pm

    Memorial Day is a day to celebrate the courage and patriotism of our fallen brothers and sisters. It should not just be celebrated on this day but daily in our hearts! They have served the country.

  121. Marc Dioso permalink
    02/06/2021 11:10 pm

    Salute to all the braved and inspiring people. You are very important in our society

  122. Neely permalink
    03/06/2021 3:35 am

    My best friend from High school died in Afganistan so memorial day is really important to me.

  123. aisasami permalink
    03/06/2021 6:02 am

    Happy Memorial Day to you too! It is a time to reflect and remember those who were heroes for our country. May they never been forgotten.

  124. Michele permalink
    03/06/2021 8:24 am

    Whatever you are doing for Memorial day, please stop and think about what today means. Its not a 3-day weekend to hang out at the beach… People fought you and our country… to have this day of recognition. Please recognize those who fought!

  125. Cookappetite permalink
    03/06/2021 7:49 pm

    It’s the right and noble thing to do to remember those who sacrificed their lives for us and those we used to know even if they didn’t really make an impact in our lives.

    • Michele @ ourredonkulouslife permalink
      07/06/2021 4:09 am

      Yes! I agree even if you think it “didn’t really make an impact on my life” still out of respect stop and give thanks.

  126. busylady2020 permalink
    04/06/2021 3:10 pm

    Memorial Day is a day of gratitude. I am thankful for the sacrifices the members of the military made for our freedom. Great article.

  127. amalateesside permalink
    05/06/2021 9:49 am

    So important to observe. I have been watching docs my late father used to watch on WW2 and its so important to learn and grow so history cannot repeat, as well as pay respects to those who selflessly gave their lives so we could live as we do now. Great read.

  128. Fransic verso permalink
    05/06/2021 11:17 am

    You are great putting in the effort to write about such a day and appreciate all the people who fight for the country.

  129. amayszingblogs permalink
    05/06/2021 2:55 pm

    Memorial Day is for veteran heroes who already risk their life to serve the country. They are heroes indeed.

  130. NIKHILA permalink
    07/06/2021 2:44 am

    Love the thought of including writers and poets. It’s truly important as they bring peace through their words.

  131. Christian Foremost permalink
    07/06/2021 3:22 am

    Finally know what memorial day is all about. I keep hearing about it only from US tv shows i watch haha

  132. crisshex88 permalink
    08/06/2021 6:02 am

    Surely an even greater emotion, a different and meaningful inspirational Monday!

  133. Hang Around The World permalink
    08/06/2021 9:40 am

    I don’t celebrate it because I’m from another country but I know that for you it is an important day to celebrare. Have a good memorial day. – Paolo

  134. SiennyLovesDrawing permalink
    08/06/2021 2:37 pm

    really enjoyed my read here, truly a good way to honour those brave one & Happy memorial day to all

  135. Ramil Hinolan permalink
    08/06/2021 7:33 pm

    Heroes deserve to be celebrated. They are inspiration to all.

  136. knycx permalink
    08/06/2021 10:09 pm

    It’s a great day to celebrate because I think now it’s quite difficult for us to care and hear about other people’s thoughts anymore. hopefully it will remind everyone the importance of observing and pass it on to the others. too.

  137. Sarah B. permalink
    09/06/2021 12:18 am

    Memorial day is one of the best ways to give honor to those who sacrificed their life for the country.

  138. Lyosha Varezhkina permalink
    09/06/2021 3:06 am

    the poems are very beautiful and touching, definitely fitting the special day when we remember the fallen for us

  139. Khushboo permalink
    09/06/2021 10:19 am

    That’s a very well written post. Happy Memorial Day to you too.
    We should remember our heroes who do so much for the country.
    .

  140. marcellinamaria permalink
    10/06/2021 2:08 am

    I agree with you, we need to pause for a moment to remember the heroes who died for their country and people. Thank you for sharing these beautiful words.

  141. Polly permalink
    10/06/2021 4:19 am

    Paying my respect to those who sacrificed their lives to save ours. 💕

  142. Roshanna21 permalink
    10/06/2021 5:32 am

    Memorial day is a very important day, I have the utmost respect for men and women who have served their country

  143. Agnes Dela Cruz permalink
    10/06/2021 11:39 pm

    Salute to the people who served and still serving for the people. Thanks for this post!

  144. bushrazblogs permalink
    11/06/2021 1:41 am

    I never knew about memorial day… Thank you so much for sharing this article. I really loved the way you guys celebrate it.

  145. Fransic verso permalink
    11/06/2021 6:40 am

    We appreciate those who fight for the country and help with anything. Thank you for sharing this post!

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