Tip of My Iceberg

photo courtesy of Chad Madden on Unsplash

Growing up, my sisters and I were part of our local Brownie and Girl Scout troops. It was something Mom encouraged us to do, and being obedient little girls, we entered the scouting program, with weekly meetings, and learning the rules and pledges of the organization.

And every year, we marched in the Memorial Day parade.

The route was about two miles, and we’d practice walking together, left, right, for a few weeks before the parade. We were going to look good no matter how other troops showed up.

Growing up, I had no idea what Memorial Day meant apart from a parade. and a chance to march. I understood there were historical reasons, but as a third grader, I didn’t care.

I do now.

In a world rife with war, it seems now, more than ever, that we pause to remember those who have died to fight for our freedom. After a time when veterans who fought and came home feeling ignored, unappreciated, and marginalized, we’re seeing the beginnings of value for our men and women who have fought and suffered for us.

It’s been an uphill battle.

photo courtesy of Chris Chow on Unsplash

When over 600,000 soldiers died during the Civil War, there was a raw awareness of what keeping our country together had cost us. In 1866, women in Columbus, Mississippi, decorated the graves of both Confederate and Union soldiers, recognizing the national cost of the war, that everybody had lost someone and something of value. Their intent was to honor the Confederate dead, but the ignored graves of the Union soldiers softened their hearts to the cost to everyone.

As a result, May 30, 1868, was declared Decoration Day, a day to remember and decorate the graves of those who had died in the war.

War will be with us as long as life exists on Earth. “And you will hear of wars and threats of wars, but don’t panic. Yes, these things must take place, but the end won’t follow immediately. Nation will go to war against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.” Matthew 24:6-7a. Because humanity is selfish and full of pride, there will always be reasons for someone to attack someone else.

But remembering those who fought in our place, who died for causes we believe in, or don’t agree with, is an act of compassion and concern we all need to develop.

In Old Testament times, God did encourage His people to fight against their enemies. Israel was small and not nearly as powerful as many kingdoms that fought against it. This small country was the one God chose through which to save all the nations of the world. “I will bless those who bless you and curse those who treat you with contempt. All the families OF THE WORL will be blessed through you.” Genesis 12:3.

War happens. Remembering that people aren’t all good or all bad helps put the mess of the world in perspective. Remembering those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the good of their country is offering them the dignity and respect they deserve.

Memorial Day is more than a parade and the beginning of summer. It’s the pause that helps us remember how blessed we are because of what others have willingly given up for us.

What would it cost you to remember?