Julie BaumgardnerYoung people look forward to Memorial Day because it means the end of school. Many adults eagerly anticipate a long weekend. Characterized as the unofficial kickoff of summer, people celebrate the day with cookouts and pool openings.
But what is the real meaning behind Memorial Day and how can families celebrate in a meaningful way?
The day originated to remember veterans of the Civil War. Today, we remember all those who have served our country through the ages. It's a time to give thanks that veterans gave and still give their lives for our country to ensure that freedom is kept alive.
Many families have a veteran of war still in their midst. These service men and women have served in many capacities, including freeing people in other nations, protecting the American way of life, freedom of speech, preservation of the family unit, privacy of our homes, freedom of religion and the right of all people to be educated.
Memorial Day is also an opportunity to reflect on the origins of our country. Because of the generations past who were willing to serve, Americans can enjoy living in the freest nation in the world.
The freedom that Americans have has never been free -- it is costly. It has required sacrifice -- being a prisoner of war, leaving behind loved ones to serve, even the supreme sacrifice of giving one's life. Remembering the great sacrifices that have been made in order for us to enjoy what we have today is what this day is about.
What will you and your family do to celebrate Memorial Day? In the midst of barbecues, catching up on chores and kicking back with friends and family, the "memorial" part of the day is often forgotten. Why not take this opportunity to teach your child about the reason for celebration? Encourage them to not only remember those who gave their lives serving our country, but to appreciate what our current military does in more than 80 countries around the world. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
* Visit the National Cemetery and place flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.
* Visit the Veteran's Memorial Park in Collegedale.
* Fly the U.S. flag at half-staff until noon.
* Participate in a National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. to pause and consider the true meaning of the day.
* Pledge to aid the widows, widowers and orphans of our fallen dead and to aid the disabled veterans.
* Take your children to Point Park and talk about its significance.
* Make care packages to send overseas.
* Write a thank-you note to someone you know who has served in the Armed Forces.
* Remember the men and women who serve and their families in your thoughts and prayers.
What service men and women have done impacts families in America every day. It means children have the opportunity to pursue their dreams in an unprecedented kind of freedom. Because of that, Memorial Day should be a time of true remembrance and hope for the future -- remembering the sacrifices that have been made and the joy and opportunities that lie ahead as a result of the sacrifice.
Julie Baumgardner is president and CEO of First Things First. Contact her at julieb@firstthings.org.