Sunday, May 24, 2009

Memorial Day


Ten years ago, my husband and I had the privilege of flying to France with my Mom and Dad to celebrate the 55th Anniversary of D-Day. We watched as my Dad walked among the gleaming white crosses clutching several roses in his hand.

He searched for the crosses of the men with whom he had served. One by one, he laid a rose beside each cross. I saw the father whom I have rarely seen cry, wipe tears from his eyes.

We who have never known the reality of war can never fully understand the profound affect it has on the lives of those who have. I see it in my father and my husband, who served in Vietnam. The bond that forms between those who faced death together in places far from all they loved and held dear, is one that is never broken. The pain of loss is still there, after all these years.

When I listen to their stories, war takes on a personal face. The young soldiers come alive. They were so much more than the pictures we see. They were living, breathing people with hopes and dreams that died with them. We have much to thank them for.

Have a blessed Memorial Day.