PTSD/Diary of a Vet's Wife/Meaning of Memorial Day

Taps

Day is done, gone the sun

from the lake, from the hill, from the sky.

All is well, safely rest. God is neigh.

Thanks and praise for our days

'neath the sun, 'neath the stars, 'neath the sky.

As we go, this we know. God is neigh.

Memorial Day weekend is once again outside my door. It's party-time for those who have not experienced the realities of war. But for others like me it's a different story.

This first hint of summer calls for pool-parties and backyard cookouts featuring the all-American hot dog, hamburgers and skirt steaks sizzling on the grill. Streamed corn in it's husk are piled on a platter. Enticing side dishes cover the table while coolers filled with water and cold beer and soda sit in the shade. Family and friends gather to spend a happy day sharing stories and laughter as gaggles of children nosily tussle underfoot.

As I sit and ponder what to write, I wonder how many of these happy people know that most every town in America has a Memorial Day Parade. This parade is to honor the veterans from their town who lost their life serving our country ... and those still living to tell about it.

Veterans of war long past, proudly follow the color guards down the middle of the street. Families with children briskly waving small American flags, line the curbs. Some parades have marching bands and horses all gathered to pay tribute to their heroes. These men and women who pledged their lives to uphold the safety of America.

Faithful Americans still honor the true meaning of this holiday ...

In tiny towns, the parade may last only five minutes, but the people's hearts are huge with love and respect for our veterans and their country ... America.

The World War II vet whose uniform doesn't fit quite so well anymore. And the Korean vets. And the Vietnam vets. And veterans from the Gulf war and the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. People lining the curbs clap unceasing as men raise their right hand to salute these veterans in true gratitude.

It all comes back to the families and the faith and the communities they serve for.

In America you don't fight because you hate what's in front of you. You fight because you love what's behind you.

Our brave military are the very backbone of this nation, deserving our deepest respect and gratitude. What they sacrifice is more precious than gold. I couldn't do it. Could you? When you see a military person in your travels, go up and shake their hand and say, "Thank you for your service." You will make their day!

Our world may be going through unsettling times, but my faith is strong and I trust God in all things. I know He has this covered. And He will prevail.

Days like today are always hard for me. Yet my husband, the love of my life, lives in my heart daily with his beautiful blue eyes and crooked smile. And as I touch the Tanzanite ring on my finger I hear him saying, "Every time you look at this you will know how much I love you. And always will." And I do!

God Bless America and all the brave men and women who have offered their lives for our country.