Striking a Chord... - Memorial Day offers a chance to reflect, remember


Striking a Chord...
Somehow we’ve already reached that point in the year where Memorial Day is upon us. What’s even weirder to think about is that in just a over a month, we’ll be halfway through 2024 already. Time has a way of going and I’m sure the summer months will seem to pass by even faster. -My hearty congratulations to all the graduates out there – whether high school, college or some specialized program. It took dedication and hard work to get to this day, and it’s something worth celebrating.
Graduation is always an interesting time of year because, at least for me, it brings to mind the memory of my own high school graduation and causes me to reflect on how I’ve changed since then, the trajectory of my life and things like that. Well, I guess a little self-reflection never hurt anyone.
To the high school graduates, know that it’s normal to feel a little sad that a big part of your life is ending, especially if you have close friends you won’t see on a regular basis anymore. Just know that your life is really just beginning and there is so much to do, see and experience. For those on the other end of the spectrum itching to get away from their hometown, don’t forget to remember where you came from once in a while and make that phone call to Mom or Dad. Life is short.
To the college graduates, embrace the bittersweet feeling. Make an effort to stay in touch with the friends you’ve made along the way. Life gets busy but it’s worth it to maintain the connection. Know that it’s OK if you still don’t totally know what you want to be when you grow up; don’t be afraid to try a few options and see what you like. There’s not just one right path and you can always change course later.
Also, just because you’re done with school, it doesn’t mean you should be done learning. Endeavor to keep learning and growing throughout your life (a lesson we can all take to heart). And, whether they’re a part of your career or not, make sure to make time for your passions and activities that are life-giving and meaningful to you. Again, life is short – too short to not spend time doing what you love. - Getting back to the topic of Memorial Day, it is a time to remember the sacrifices that have been made to keep our country free.
Memorial Day was originally known as Decoration Day. Three years after the Civil War ended, on May 5, 1868, the head of an organization of Union veterans — the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR) — established Decoration Day as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers. The first large observance was held that year at Arlington National Cemetery, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The ceremonies centered around the mourning-draped veranda of the Arlington mansion, once the home of Gen. Robert E. Lee. Various Washington officials, including Gen. and Mrs. Ulysses S. Grant, presided over the ceremonies. After speeches, children from the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Orphan Home and members of the GAR made their way through the cemetery, strewing flowers on both Union and Confederate graves, reciting prayers and singing hymns (information courtesy of the Department of Veterans Affairs).
Memorial Day is still a time to decorate the graves of those killed in war with American flags and flowers, to recite prayers and sing patriotic hymns. It is good and right to continue the tradition and remember that freedom is not free. If you’re able, I’d encourage you to go to a Memorial Day ceremony Monday and pause to remember those who have served.
Also consider observing the National Moment of Remembrance, which encourages all Americans to pause wherever they are at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day for a minute of silence to remember and honor those who have died in service to the nation. As Moment of Remembrance founder Carmella LaSpada states: “It’s a way we can all help put the memorial back in Memorial Day.”
Beyond one day a year, there are plenty of ways to support veterans in the community throughout the year. One way is to support your local American Legion through attending fundraisers. Also, I have touched on it before, but we truly have a great local resource in The Highground Veterans Memorial Park just outside of Neillsville. If you haven’t visited, plan to visit soon. There are so many well-thought out, meaningful memorials –not to mention the scenic walking trails I discovered a couple of years ago. It’s a wonderful place for peaceful reflection. The park is always looking for volunteers, whether it’s greeters, helping with parking at events, groundskeeping or making goodies for the fall or spring bake sale. There are plenty of ways to serve and utilize your talents. Camp Victory in rural Greenwood is another great local resource for veterans, offering retreats, relaxation and healing through the outdoors. The camp’s open house is coming up on July 27 (a ways out, but it will be here before we know it). If you’ve never been there, venture out and see what it’s all about.
And, if you’re looking for another local organization that helps veterans to support, the Never Forgotten Honor Flight is a great choice. This organization flies veterans on an all-expense paid trip to Washington, D.C., to view the memorials erected in their honor. I’ve had the privilege of interviewing a handful of veterans who’ve been on the Honor Flight during my time as a reporter and editor, and every one I’ve talked to has had an incredibly positive experience. For many, it can provide a level of closure and resolution they didn’t get when they first came back from serving in the military.
And, if you have a friend, family member or other loved one who is a veteran, be sure to thank them for their service and let them know you are there for them. So many have sacrificed for the sake of our country, whether a lot or a little, all the way up to the ultimate sacrifice. We ought to remember and honor them.