The smoke of the grill wafting through the air. The smell of hamburgers and hotdogs causing our mouths to water with anticipation. The gathering of family and friends to enjoy a day off work. Cornhole, hillbilly golf, lawn darts, and other fun outdoor games are set up and ready for the competition. Fun conversation, laughter, and maybe even some serious conversations about the concerns of the day as we try to resolve all the world’s problems are all shared as the day proceeds.

We all enjoy a day off, a day to relax as we take a break from the daily routine. We especially enjoy gathering with friends and family, relishing every moment we are able to spend together.

But let’s not forget the significance of this day. In the midst of the festivities of the day, let’s not forget that the reason we can enjoy days such as this is because of those who cannot enjoy days such as this. And they can’t because they paid the ultimate price in order for us to enjoy such days as this.

Multitudes of Americans have given all for us – for our nation – so that we might continue to enjoy the liberties and freedoms which are ours as citizens of this great nation. On this day of remembrance let’s not forget to remember with gratitude and thanksgiving the sacrifices of these brave men and women who willingly put themselves in positions and places of grave danger, knowing that it might cost them everything. But they freely went, freely served, and freely died for us.

On this Memorial Day let’s not forget, but rather let us thank God for those who were willing to give all for us.

Blessings!