Well, reflection is at hand again as I see this Memorial Day shape up to be another that reflects the torn underpinnings of the selfless courage it was meant to relish in. In 1868 the 30th of May was designated a day to dress and decorate the graves of those servicemen who died protecting the then splintered union. We have moved on since those days, but one might not know it by the rhetoric posed by some in this very day and age. President Lincoln took the bold, higher road supporting the need for an undivided union,and choosing war as a means through which to restore these United States, regardless of petty arguing over a simple truth...All men are created equal regardless of color, creed, or tongue. To be PC I should rephrase, All persons are created equal, and they were created equal with inalienable rights that are endowed to these persons by their creator -Whether they believe in Him or not. These liberties, or rights so endowed are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

     As our founding documents avail these rights and liberties, it becomes my point today that we must thank those in defense of those rights and ideals. We need not agree with whatever war, tactics, or stratagem they must employ to protect our right to think, speak, and act in any way we see fit. However, I do believe we must agree that they deserve outright and complete respect and honor for freeing us to go on with our lives as they sweat, bleed, and die for the rights we ever so often take for granted here at home. 

     I also believe we must be thankful for more than just a day or two that we set aside to honor their sacrifices.

 

RJ