Patriotism

As I decorated the outside of our home tonight, it occurred to me that there is something missing in today's society. I wondered how many people my age and younger even knew what Memorial Day was all about. I wondered if people even cared that so many Americans have lost their lives to ensure personal freedoms. Americans as a whole are so self-centered that I doubt many take the time to think of these fallen heroes and the families they left behind.

During WWII it seemed that every window on Main Street displayed some kind of Patriotic decorations. Homes flew American flags with pride and windows were adorned with soldier support. In today's world there are a few individuals like myself that take the time to decorate their homes. In general we rely on the city and town governments to put up flags in May and take them down in September. We assume that someone else will take care of the remembrance while we get a day off from work. The beaches will be packed no doubt...picnics will be had....The Unofficial Start of Summer! That's not what Memorial Day is about.

I was fortunate enough to grow up in a very patriotic family. My father, a Vietnam Veteran, educated us in the value of freedom and why so many people are willing to fight for it. My mother made sure that the flags were hung and the decorations displayed. Both took the time to take us to the Memorial Day Parade and explain to us the importance of remembrance. I try to follow in their footsteps and teach my children how wonderful America is and just how lucky we are to live here.

Tonight, I challenge anyone reading to set aside some time to talk to your children about Patriotism and the significance of Memorial Day. Spend a few dollars and purchase some flags....decorate the front porch of your home. Spend Monday with your family, find a local parade to watch....participate in town observances. Be Patriotic and make sure that future generations have an understanding of this great country and how it became that way. Freedom is not FREE....let them know it!