Because of You: Memorial Day

Today is Memorial Day, a day of picnics and parades, family and friends to be sure. But more importantly, it is a day to remember those who have put their lives on the line so that we can live in freedom and safety. We remember the soldiers from all branches of the military, police officers, fire fighters, and paramedics. We remember their families who worry, pray, and grieve.

Because of You

Soldiers

Because of you...

I live free.

Because of you...

I am free to have an opinion.

Because of you...

I am free to express my opinion.

Because of you...

My opinion is expressed with discretion and respect.

Because of you...

I am free to participate in my government.

Because of you...

I do.

I live free...

Because of you.

So, what did you do for Memorial Day? Who did you remember? Who did you thank? God bless our soldiers, first responders, and their families. Keep them safe.

Balance

Balance

If life was fair,

How would we know?

If we didn't know loss,

How would we grow?

If there was no hate,

Would we appreciate love?

Or would we take it for granted,

This gift from above?

Opposites are necessary

For directions and such,

Like left needs right

And less needs much.

But I really don't think

That I need to know hate

To prove to the world

That love really is great.

For hate is the absence

Of love, I am sure.

But the absence of hate?

Love is much more!

Reactions to the news of Osama bin Laden's death have been somewhat varied. Some celebrate in a party atmosphere. Others have tempered their emotions, glad that such evil has left the world, but refusing to celebrate the loss of any human life, even his. Still others are taking advantage of these events to remember and celebrate bin Laden's victims and the soldiers who are making sacrifices to protect our freedom.

I have found myself in each of these categories. I wanted to open the champagne last night and nearly cried as President Obama gave his speech. When I got up this morning, I lit a candle. Not for bin Laden, but for remembrance. Now, nearly twenty four hours later, I can be satisfied that the balance between good and evil took a definitive swing to the good. Inevitably, there will be another swing, but for now, I can be happy with the tilt of the scale.

But does it have to tilt the other way? Just because we are given the choice to live loving lives or destructive lives, does that mean someone has to choose destructive? Which did you choose today in your reaction to the news of bin Laden's death? in your reaction to the Phillies' loss? in your reaction to the price on the gas pump? in your reaction to your child's report card?