Memorial Day

I want to take a moment to wish each and everyone of you a safe weekend as you prepare to hit the river, beach, trails, barbecues, or whatever it is you do to celebrate Memorial Day.

But I also want to encourage you to take just a few moments to reflect upon, and remember those who won't be enjoying this weekend.

As a veteran who has lost friends and colleagues, this is a bittersweet day for me.

Bitter, because I remember my friends, and the pain of losing them. God rest their souls.

Sweet, because I remember my friends, and the good times we shared. The smiles & jokes we shared. The pranks we pulled together, and on each other. The hard times we faced together, and got each other through. They are memories that I cherish, and the making of those memories helped to make me who I am today.

And while Memorial Day truly is about honoring those who perished, I personally want to honor those who lost family or friends. The anguish and grief of the parents, siblings, spouses, children and friends of those who willingly made the ultimate sacrifice for their country, will not dissipate with the click of a button. It is unimaginable, and without comparison. The pain of loss shared between those who still struggle day by day, deserves recognition as well. They fight their own battles, whether you see it or not.

Thank you to all who continue to fight the good fight, and may God bring peace and comfort to you. 

Bless everyone who is mourning the loss of a loved one today.

Freedom does not come easy. The liberties we enjoy today came from heavy sacrifice.

Be safe, and God bless.