Memorial Day

Memorial Day

Submitted by Thomas Stidl

         As we approach the Memorial Day weekend, our human families get together to begin the unofficial start of the summer season.  We have parties and barbecues.  Some of us travel great distances to visit relatives.  Many of us go down the shore to enjoy some rest and relaxation.  We pattern ourselves on that Passover feast of many years ago when Joseph and Mary, along with the child Jesus, went to Jerusalem to celebrate the Holy Days with their family and acquaintances.

         It is good to do this, however, we must never lose sight of the true meaning of this holiday.  In yesteryear, this holiday was known as Decoration Day.  It was a day set aside so that all families could remember their beloved deceased who passed away in the service of their country.  It is also a day that we remember all deceased people who have served our nation in the Armed Forces.  Just drive through any cemetery and see all the American Flags dotting their graves.  Many of these did not die during the wars.

         I even try to spend some time in the cemetery with my dad who served in World War II as a Seabee on the island of Guadalcanal, New Guinea, and the Admiralty Islands.  When I am not at the cemetery, I have a prayer in my heart for all service men who lost their lives during the war.  I also remember all men and women who currently serve our nation in that capacity

         As I get older, I also remember the deceased service men and women of other countries, be they ally or not!!  They too need our prayers.  Headstrong leaders who never gave any thought of how war would affect families in their country probably conscripted them into the service of their nation.  They need our understanding and forgiveness.

         After all, we are all human beings residing on Planet Earth.  We now have a current war between Ukraine and Russia.  How many more families must suffer the separation of death by means of war?  Is the answer to that question the refrain from the 1960’s ballad?  The answer my friend is blowing in the wind; the answer is blowing in the wind!!  Frankly former President Trump is correct.  Who cares who wins the war?  The killing must stop now and peace must be reestablished.  Let the people of Ukraine and Russia decide.  The people of those countries must control their leadership.  How do we prevent war?  Peace through strength as was demonstrated by Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump. 

         What we have in our leadership now is absolute weakness.  That was illustrated by our withdrawal from Afghanistan.  Wake up America.  Get closer to God.  The times are perilous.  Let former President Trump negotiate a peace settlement before the nukes fly.  Both Russia and Ukraine respect Donald Trump.  From the Durham report we now know that the “Russia Collusion” hysteria was political nonsense and a lie perpetrated on the people of the United States.  Again, the killing must stop!!

         Until next time, Laus Tibi, Christe.  Deo Gratias.  Gloria Tibi Domini.  Praise be to God.  See you in Paradise.