"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
― Thomas Campbell

This is a day for remembrance of those who have gone before us, those who served in the military and the many who lost their lives in service. In my youth I would often accompany my mother to a little town in Oklahoma to place a wreath on the grave of my grandparents. Every Memorial Day for many years we did this and when Bobby came into my life he joined us. I look back on this time with gratitude for her actions and also for teaching me this act of respect.
This past weekend Bobby and I visited his parents and on the way stopped at the National Cemetery where my parents are buried. It was an honor to lay flowers at their stones. I was filled with great emotion and many memories. I was thankful to return this respectful act back towards my mother and father.
I am grateful for loved ones who have died before me. I am grateful for those who served so valiantly. And with highest respect those who lost their lives in the line of duty for their country.
Mr. Beecher, an author and clergy wrote this closing quote I use referring to the dead Union soldiers who fought in the Civil War. I think it is timeless.
"They hover as a cloud of witnesses above this Nation.” ~Henry Ward Beecher

Peace.