Remembering.

"As America celebrates Memorial Day, we pay tribute to those who have given their lives in our nation's wars." --John McHugh

I'm a few days late with this post, but I didn't feel right letting May pass without taking time to remember and to express gratitude for all those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms I possess. Whether it was duty, obligation, or choice, I am grateful. I recognize that my freedoms rest upon these sacrifices. I am in your debt, and may I always remember the experiences you sacrificed that I now enjoy.

"...we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead...have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here...they gave the last full measure of devotion..." --Abraham Lincoln, Gettysburg Address

Leeana Tankersley, author and military wife, took time on Memorial Day to remember the friends and families who must endure the sacrifices of their loved ones, citing Jesus' words in the beatitudes "blessed are those that mourn." I can't imagine the pain of the loss, and there are no words to fill that void. I pray for your strength and comfort.

"...our gratitude has to be more than visits to the troops, and once-a-year Memorial Day ceremonies. We honor the dead best by treating the living well." --Jennifer Granholm

There are many organizations out there that support veterans and their families. If interested in "treating the living well," please consider some of the following organizations: 

USO - Serving troops and their families.

The Wounded Warrior Project - "Mission: To honor and empower wounded warriors." (May is Mental Health Awareness month--PTSD affects many returning veterans and their families.)

Fisher House Foundation - Provides housing for military families to be close to loved one during hospitalization.

The Mission Continues - "It's not a charity. It's a challenge."

Team Rubicon - Military veterans teaming up with first responders to "rapidly deploy emergency response teams." (Seemed relevant to include this one, especially with this spring's very active weather in the Midwest.)

There are several service-specific charities and organizations out there that may be more relevant to your passions; take time to check them out!