Open
Spaces
By John W. Vander Velden
Vol.: 20.5
I’m writing this short piece on Memorial Day and
remembering those that have served, willing to sacrifice themselves for
something greater than any one of us. I think, particularly during this
difficult time, that each of us should think about those that have given the “ultimate
measure” on behalf of millions of people they had never met. They did what they
thought they must for a community in which you and I are part. I feel it is
important that we too are willing to do our part for the good of others.
Their sacrifice should remind us that we do not live
alone, isolated and self-serving. Too easily we slide into the, what about ME
attitude, that we forget about the others, the THEM. Have we forgotten that the
ME is indeed one of the THEM, and also among the THEM are those we love and
care about. I doubt that many of those we honor on this day had forgotten. Perhaps
that is just another reason to remember them as heroes.
For 2020 the holiday carries a somber difference.
Social distancing has required that we, for this year, face Memorial Day in
ways different than any other time in our lifetime. Those changes should not
change the significance of the holiday. Rather as I stated before it should
heighten our resolve to straighten our own shoulders and do what needs to be
done. For our actions will affect our friends, neighbors, family members for
good or ill.
Now is not the time to point fingers or assign blame.
It is a time to face the sacrifices needed to accomplish a mighty goal. God has
not abandoned, nor will He ever leave us no matter what the future holds. This
crisis WILL pass, and if we work together we will reach its conclusion stronger
and better than before. But if we pout and shout, “poor me,” without considering
how the vulnerable must face these difficult days, then the fractures within
our society will only widen.
Is that the legacy we wish to leave in the memory of
our fallen heroes?
I would hope not.
Covid-19 will pass. We will endure these months. Years
from now we will tell our descendants about 2020. What that story will be will
depend upon our actions TODAY, TOMMOROW, and the WEEKS ahead. Take courage dear
friends and remember the lessons learned from the brave we honor on this day.
God’s peace be with you, today, tomorrow, and all the
days ahead.
John
Author of the Misty Creek Saga
Author of the Misty Creek Saga
