I have learned not to say have a Happy Memorial Day, because for The Gold Star Mothers, and those who have lost loved ones, it’s not a happy day,
Originally deemed “Decoration Day” as a way to recognize the soldiers lost during the Civil War, the day gradually expanded to memorialize all those who have given their lives throughout the long history of war in the US. The holiday was officially recognized in 1971, and now, 40 years later, Memorial Day continues to be a distinguished day to remember the military personnel who we have lost.
If you are struggling with the proper thing to say as Monday approaches, here are a few alternatives:
I wish you a meaningful Memorial Day.
I hope you enjoy your weekend, and pause to remember its purpose.
Help remember those who have served on this Memorial Day.
With this in mind, we sincerely hope you have a wonderful, meaningful weekend
In Flanders Fields
In Flanders Fields, the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.-John McCrae
