Happy Memorial Day! A day to remember and reflect.

My dictionary definition says, "last Monday of May, a legal holiday for honoring dead members of the armed forces of all wars."

Some define it as those 'killed in military service'.

As I reflect, I think of Craig Carlson of neighboring Goldfield who lost his only son in Afghanistan; of Mary Waters who lost her only brother in Vietnam, three of my high school classmates died during the Vietnam conflict as well.

Since my mom was one of fifteen, and the ages some of her siblings were at that time, there were six siblings or in-laws serving during World War II. I can remember mom telling about her mother, plus a couple of her friends, couldn't stand the thoughts of their children and friends serving in harm's way at that time. So they chose to get together to pray for their safety during battles. Not only did my six uncles return from the war, none of them were injured during their service.

And then we tend to remember our loved ones who have died without military service. Always good to remember. To stop and reflect.

It is a harder year to celebrate our memories due to the virus but we can remember. Just have to think a little harder. We can do it!

Heavenly Father, thank You for memories. Thank You for people willing to serve us so we can maintain our way of life, of love, of freedom, to be able to worship You! Thank You for the sacrifice of Your Son to give us freedom for this life and the one coming! Thank You for Your Love and Your Care. Amen.