How Do You Remember?

     I think it's wonderful that we have a day that we as a nation set aside a day to remember those who have fought and died to preserve our rights and freedoms; you know like being able to Gather. I have military in my family and my husband's family (including my husband) who have battled in combat. I have family that were part of CD (Civil Defense), when unable to serve, actively. I would never begrudge anyone's joyous celebration of this day. It's a day when many families have mini-reunions, of sorts, and family is something to be treasured. However, I feel like, sometimes our joy in having a day off from work sometimes outweighs our remembrance of this day.

     Growing up, my family was no different. We had a family barbecue, where all the uncle, aunts, cousins and in-laws piled into my grandparents (later my father's) yard. We played horseshoes and badminton, and ate until we were bloated. The grown-ups drank and the children climbed trees; later in the evening the women cleaned up, and the men played Pinochle in the garage for nickels and dimes, and the kids sat around talking of our Summer plans. It was a good time had by all. What I don't remember is anyone talking about what the day really meant.

     Now that I am the grown-up, I want my children to understand why the banks are closed and the mail doesn't arrive. When thinking about what should be served on this day, the usual things popped into my head: Hot dogs, Hamburgers, Cole Slaw, Potato Salad, Greasy Bread (it's a Hungarian thing), and even Ice Cream. Then, I thought, I wish I could afford to get some MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). I could hand them out and we could sit outside on the ground, huddle together, eat them straight from the package and tell them that this is what and how soldiers have to eat when they are fighting.

     I guess, I just feel like the men and women who made this sacrifice deserve more than a parade and a barbecue. I want my children to know what the day means. I don't mean the history behind it, I learned that in school. I mean why we set aside a day to remember. I am open to suggestions from those of you who maybe have something special you do on this day, other than a get-together, or special prayer. We already say a prayer every evening for those who are fighting and for the families of those who have fallen. I have thought of going to the nearest cemetery where our heroes have been laid to rest, but with gas prices and no money for gas, that option was a no-go. I am looking for something I can do with them (here at home) to help them understand why we have Memorial Day.