Memorial Day

Memorial Day is coming up yet again.  It seems that the months fly even more quickly than they did just a few short years ago.  Some of our Memorial Days in Kansas have been hot and sticky.  Others have been so cold, rainy, and dreary that we had to wear coats.  And a few others have been, as the old nursery tale suggests, “Just right.”

This holiday is a time for many to go to the lake or the beach and soak in some time off from work and the grind.  For others, it is a time of reflection on their friends and loved ones who have served (or are serving) in the military.  For still others, it is a time to visit the cemetery and reminisce about relatives and friends who have passed on into the next life.

For us, it’s a time for all of that in some form or another.  We make the annual trips to the various cemeteries where our relatives and friends are interred.  We place flowers and French gardens near the stones.  We also usually get together for a time of fun with family.  And we remember those of our number who have, and continue to serve.  It truly is a time for reflection for the Plank and Vincent families.

“Coming from a Mennonite pacifist background,” you might ask, “How can you celebrate those in military service?”

Fair question.  Sometimes people change their perspective, and in so doing change their opinions regarding such things.  I never believed, and still don’t believe, that the military and I would have gotten along very well.  It isn’t for everyone, and it wasn’t for me.  Thankfully, I received a high lottery number, and didn’t have to serve in any way, although I would have if called, to the best of my ability.

I wasn’t lazy.  I did find other ways to serve society.  EMS was a good fit for me for many years.  And I served civically as well in city government, Lions Club, and other endeavors.

But for those for whom the military is a good fit, there may be no better way to obtain an education, develop a lot of maturity quickly (read that “grow up”), and serve society.  I am in awe of those who serve in this way.  And I support them wholeheartedly.

So, whatever you do this Memorial Day weekend, take some time to celebrate the holiday as it was intended.  Remember.  Be thankful.  Support.  The lakes in the Plains states are overflowing anyway this year, so a trip to the lake is probably not in the cards.  Try something different.  You might just find a new tradition to keep.