Memorial Day Weekend - what does it mean to you? Official start of summer; BBQs; get-togethers; parties; concerts. Three day weekend? HOT weather? Boating?
It's a great weekend to spend with family and friends… grilling burgers and enjoying time together. But I hope you took a moment to remember those who cannot do the things you did this weekend. Those who lost their lives, those who are deployed, those who are missing someone today. Those who have an empty seat at their table.
Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember those who serve and have served our great nation, and those who paid the ultimate price to protect our freedom.
I spent the day in the airport today and during my layover, I people watched. Along with noticing people in uniform, I also saw an older gentleman at my gate who was wearing a WWII veteran hat. Many people went up to him and thanked him for his service. He replied to every person, "It is much appreciated." He was a genuine, kind man - and really seemed grateful to every person who took time to say 'thank you.' Luckily, he was in my boarding section and stood right next to me in line. He couldn't hear what the PA system was saying, so he asked me to take care of him. While waiting in line, we chatted. Turns out, he was heading to be a pall bearer at a funeral for a dear friend of his who also served. I helped him get boarded and make it to his seat. Small gestures make a big difference :)
Today's Starfish
Devon and I know many people who serve our nation, served in the past, and were missing someone at their table today. Our friend Gina was especially missing someone. Her husband is stationed in Qatar and today was also his birthday. Gina and her family had a birthday party for Robert even though he couldn't be there. They even had a cake and sang happy birthday to him, and it was all caught on video! I saw the video on Facebook, and I couldn't help but get chills. How awesome!
Servicemen and women not only risk their lives, but they also sacrifice time with their families. A lot of times, we forget about those families - they sacrifice too! Next time you see someone who is missing a loved one, thank them.
Devon and I wrote thank you cards to people we know who take on this important task. We hope this small gesture will make a big difference in these people's lives and that they know how grateful we are for them!
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| Gina and Robert |
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