Memories….
With it
being Memorial Day weekend, I am reminded of what this holiday means to
me. It reminds me of what I have because
of our freedoms as a nation and what we can learn from it. I am one who loves
to have my flag hanging outside my front door and it reminds me of keeping my
son in my prayers on a regular basis and freedom.
Also, as a child I remember my parents having their flag
blowing in the breeze and because it was a holiday, we often had a picnic where
we would invite other family or friends.
However, I do not remember this holiday being a solemn holiday at that
time. As I grew older, it did become as
a reminder of things happening in our world as I had three older brothers who
served their country, one during the Korean War and two during the Viet Nam
War. I remember how this effected my mom
wondering if her boys would come home safely.
The faith she had was amazing and she believe God was in charge. All three of my brothers returned home safely.
Years later,
the man I married came from a military family.
My father-in-law was career military, as well as my husband and one of
our son’s is currently career military. During our marriage, we were fortunate
that Dan did not have to leave the States to serve our country. However, he was involved with the Gulf War in
the early 1990’s. I remember being pretty frazzled about the ‘what ifs’. Our son has served four tours and each time
it doesn’t get easier for this momma.
However, as I remember my own mother praying for God’s direction in her
life and for her children, I find myself relying on God’s direction for my
son’s life as well.
I am proud
of each of my children for the careers which they have chosen. With this holiday, it makes me more aware of
what my son is doing for others and makes me nervous as he is in arms way.
As I think
of the memories of what was before Dan’s death, I’m reminded of many terrific
things that have happened in our lives but that doesn't mean there were times that not everything was terrific. God has promises he is near us as in Psalms
2:18 reads: The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.
Each of our
journeys are different….. Some of you
may have lost a loved one in circumstances which have not been easy to
except. Some of you lost your spouse to
a long lengthy disease. Others lost your
spouse very quickly.
Whether our
tragedies were under good circumstances or painful circumstances, our God is
with us. Isiah 41:10 reads: Fear
not, for I am with you, be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen
you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
As time goes
on, it seems I remember more of the good memories than those that are not so
good. I trust and pray as you travel
this journey, you will also remember the good things and the bad memories will fade
away.
Hugs and
prayers to each of you…….
