Memorial Day

A pick-up truck drove by the house and then slowed down. From its bed an American flag was lifted; it now hangs from a nearby streetlight.

I love our flag.

Inside my home, our simple and few red, white, and blue decorations are proudly displayed in the dining room. After all, Memorial Day is soon approaching, and I don't want to miss it. I have always been what I suppose many would describe as patriotic, though I tend to think of more as thankful.

This year, even more than any other year, I am aware of the sacrifice of others for me and for my children-- sacrifices I don't understand or comprehend or even know of.

You can be sure this deepened awareness is very much connected to thoughts of and prayers for a childhood acquaintance who is currently working hard and putting himself in danger's way overseas. The pictures of this man in uniform strikes my heart because I know his face. He was a boy. He is a husband, a son, a brother.

I am so thankful that this childhood acquaintance-- this soldier who was once a schoolmate and a fellow Children's Church attender-- is giving of himself. I am so thankful that praying for him makes my prayers for all those serving our country that much more fervent and sincere. I am so thankful that he helps me more fully appreciate what others throughout the years have sacrificed for my sake. I am so thankful that he is not waiting for this nation to be perfect before he is willing to serve its inhabitants.

On May 28th, I will watch our small town parade go by our little home, much the way I did every Memorial Day growing up. My children will wave small American flags, as I did when I was younger. I will tell them about the men and women we are honoring, the way my parents told me. I will tell them about Ken and the men and women who are today serving us.

If gratitude is patriotism then, yes, I am very patriotic. Especially this year.