The Meaning of Memorial Day

It could be easy to forget as we slip into a pair of shorts and get the goodies ready for the grill that Memorial Day is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation’s service.

Take a moment today to remember the many men and women who have protected and served us, our country and the freedom we cherish.

I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours, to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of Freedom. — Abraham Lincoln, November 1864

While we’re thinking about the meaning of this day, you might be interested to know that the association of red with Memorial Day goes beyond just being the red, white and blue of the American flag.  The color red and the poppy symbolize “remembrance of those that died in war”

This association came out of one of the most memorable poems ever written about war.  It is a poem called “In Flanders Fields” written by Lt. Col. John McCrae.  The poppies referred to in the poem grew in profusion in Flanders in the disturbed earth of the battlefields and cemeteries where war casualties were buried.

It is very moving and if you aren’t familiar with it you can hear it read in this video.

Okay, if that video left you feeling a bit emotional, get back in the happy, holiday spirit by heading on over to Julie’s post “Inspiration Americana” for some uplifting ideas for celebrating in true American style.

And if you think that that Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day came about after WWI you might be surprised to learn that it started shortly after the Civil War.  Find out more at  History of Memorial Day.

See more pictures and learn about the Memorial Day ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery.

Happy Memorial Day!