Memorial day isn’t just about the pool opening, not having to go to school or work, or getting together with friends for a barbecue. All of these things are wonderful, and I’m the first to tell you I enjoy each of them, but sometimes, it’s easy to miss the real point of a holiday.

Memorial day is about taking the time to remember all of the brave men and women who died while serving in our armed forces. People who made the ultimate sacrifice.

It’s easy for each of us to forget about this.

We turn on the news or read the paper, and we hear about a soldier dying in combat. Sadly, I’ve gotten so used to hearing this, I’m sorry to say, I usually don’t react when I hear it. But the families of each of these men and women remember.

Everyday.

Their lives are forever changed because of the sacrifice their loved one made for our country.

Memorial Day is a good reminder of this.

Today, take the time to say a prayer of thanks for those who have given their lives for each of us. I know I will, and I’ll encourage my kids to take a moment to offer up thanks as well. Don’t let the day pass without recognizing the true meaning behind the day, and for giving those who gave their lives the respect they deserve.

I salute the brave men and women who risk their lives each day for our country. I want to say “Thank you,” to each of these individuals. For those who lost their lives, I can only promise to not take the freedom they fought for granted. And to those individuals who are currently serving, thank you for protecting this great nation.

Our country isn’t perfect, and sometimes it’s easy for us to focus on the flaws. However, let’s not forget how incredibly lucky and blessed we are to live in the United States of America.

Enjoy being with your family today, but make sure you remember those who can’t be with their family, because of the sacrifice they were willing to make.

Find meaning each day,

Dara