It's Called Memorial Day for a Reason

I'm old. I remember when holidays weren't about money, when restaurants and retailers actually closed so their employees could celebrate or observe the day. Back then, we actually had to plan the day well enough because we knew, if we didn't get that bag of ice ahead of time, we were just going to have to make do with ice cube trays. But, you know what? It didn't mean the day was wrecked. Truth be told, I seriously doubt anyone would have even noticed.  

Now, every commemorative holiday is an excuse for a sale — Martin Luther King Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans' Day, Presidents' Day — which means some poor schmuck of a sales clerk is going to have to work, because his employer knows that people, who have the day off, are going to take advantage of his store being open. It's reached the point now that it's a "SALE" day, on the day we're supposed to be honoring our fallen heroes. How freaking sad is that? I mean, I get consumerism, but really? 

Tomorrow is Memorial Day, folks. It's a day set aside to remember those who fought and died for the United States of America, sometimes against their better judgement, sometimes because to do otherwise would mean jail time and being labeled as a traitor, sometimes because they knew the cause to be true and just, and sometimes because they KNEW that they were the only thing between evil and the people and country they loved. 

And, it's not just for recognizing military combatants. Sometimes, the battle is fought by civil servants and civilians right here at home. Remember those first responders who died at the Fall of the Towers, the passengers on United Flight 93 and, even more recently, the volunteer firemen who died in West, Texas. They chose to put themselves in harms way to protect and defend others. The Bible teaches us that there is no greater love. (John 15:13) I think that kind of sacrifice deserves more than a passing remembrance before we jump in the pool, don't you? 

Enjoy your day off. Just remember why you're able to do so.