Memorial Day

As I sit and think about the significance of Memorial day, I have to admit, I feel guilty having gone shopping rather than resting and remembering its importance. I'll never forget the first time I watched Saving Private Ryan. When I sat down in the theater with my friend, I had no idea what the movie was about. The opening scenes, lasting about 45 mins or so, was continual graphic war violence, and watching them sent me into a state of shock for the remainder of the movie. But I'm glad I saw it. It definitely opened my eyes to the brutality of war (though it's not like I thought it was a party or anything), and gave me a greater appreciation for those in my life who have been directly affected by war. My step-father is a Vietnam veteran. My brother served in the Airforce for four years (and thank the Lord he never had to go to war). My grandfather lost an eye in World War II, a minor injury considering he took out a foxhole of German soldiers all by himself. Unfortunately, as have many others, he also lost his mind. I never knew him. But he is still one of my heroes. The United States wouldn't be the country it is today if it weren't for the soldiers who gave their lives faithfully and selflessly. Thank you.