In Ordered Rows

In Ordered Rows

 

By John W. Vander Velden              

 

In March of 2007 I found myself in a place I never thought I would be standing.  I scanned the perfectly manicured rolling green lawn and the ordered rows of modest stones, in the morning’s sun beneath crystal blue skies.  My mind emptied a moment, overwhelmed by the sight of Arlington National Cemetery.  For I knew that each of those white stones represented…someone.  Deep within me my heart ached at the unmeasurable loss.  The price willingly paid by so many.   

But those ordered stones in Northern Virginia are just a fraction of the stones across our nation and even abroad.  Solemn stones that speak of freedom’s price.  For those things, we so easily take for granted, were purchased by the brave that laid down their all.  But these ordered stones represent others as well.  For none of those bones that rest beneath that green lawn lived in a vacuum.  Each was someone’s child, many were parents themselves.  All had those that knew and loved them…sisters…brothers…wives…dear friends.  The markers speak of a larger community that sacrificed so much.   

We must not forget all that the ordered stones that row by row stand day and night in formation represent, all those that have paid the ultimate price that an imperfect world demands. We must not forget those we knew those that paid the price.  We must never ignore all the others that stood to protect us.  We must remember all the changed lives…aching hearts…homes less filled. 

How much do we owe those, whose names are carved in stone?  How much do we owe those in the shadows, who were forced to live on with shattered lives?  Can one day a year be sufficient?  Does the flag at mid-mast speak loudly enough?  Should we not live our lives as a testament to the sacrifice?  Should not this land, by its purpose, reflect the courage shown…the blood let…the lives changed? 

But looking across Arlington I understood…The price paid has been high.  The debt is owed.  And I pray for real peace.  That the day may come when there will be no need to add stones in ordered rows.

 

(364 Words)    5-25-2016