It’s funny. Usually Memorial Day has been a day of BBQ’s, pool parties, and get-togethers with little-to-no-thought of why I had a day off. We have such amazing freedoms that we take for granted every day. True, we live in uncertain times. We could have another 9/11 at any time, but because we have brave men and women who selfishly put themselves in harms way so that we might be able to enjoy a hot dog or hamburger on a warm spring day, we have this one day out of the year to remember and recognize them. Doesn’t seem fitting anymore to me… just one day, that is. I was watching the Indy 500 yesterday, and then the Coca-Cola 600 after that and they had bagpipes playing Amazing Grace, then TAPS, and then a 21 gun salute. I couldn’t watch. I didn’t think it would be hard once I said goodbye, but I was wrong. I know that too many families like mine are hurting on this day. The pain resurfaces and we feel all over again. Maybe it’s just because it’s only been almost three weeks since Casey was killed, or maybe I finally, after 32 years, understand the full meaning of this sacred day.

So, to all the men, women, and families who sacrifice all and have sacrificed in the past for us, thank you. Words will never express the gratitude I have for you. May God bless you and your families and protect you during these uncertain times.