It’s not your average holiday

Memorial Day weekend is here. The holiday is meant to serve as a day to remember and honor servicemen and women who gave their lives in combat. Too often, though, the purpose of this day is lost on many.

Instead of a sacred time to remember the nation’s fallen, Memorial Day weekend is often recognized as the start of summer, celebrated with cookouts, beach visits, mini vacations and parties. In fact, the holiday weekend is one of the the busiest times during the year for travel.

There is of course nothing wrong with enjoying a long weekend. It is a shame, however, when people fail to respect the reason for this weekend.

With Memorial Day’s purpose being watered down by society over the years, too many view it as a “happy” holiday. It is not uncommon for someone to wish others “happy Memorial Day.” In reality, this holiday is one that is never happy. It is solemn. It unearths a unique grief experienced by veterans, active servicemen and women and loved ones who have buried casualties of war. Memorial Day involves visits to cemeteries and the sorrowful sound of “Taps.”

Just as too many assume Memorial Day is a happy one, they fail to distinguish that day from other patriotic holidays. Memorial Day remembers the fallen. Veterans Day honors living veterans. Sometimes an easy way to honor both the living and the dead is to at least know the difference between the two.

Enjoy the long weekend and spend time with family and friends. While doing these things, however, honor the fact that the many holidays and pleasures you enjoy in your community have been made possible or protected with the lives of millions of servicemen and women throughout this nation’s history.