I salute you.

Happy Memorial Day!! I guess its true, that the more traveling you do internationally, the more you come to appreciate that of your own country. Last summer I got home days before July 4th, and this time I got home days before Memorial Day.

Both times, I've been reminded of the beauty in freedom we celebrate as Americans. Not all are so lucky. 

Yet there is something that doesn't seem right about Memorial Day. A day once created to celebrate and remember those who lost their life in service is now more of a day that marks the opening to pool season, the time you can wear white again, good sales, and an excuse to have a day off and grill out. Memorial Day to be (I'm sad to confess this) has been more about the theme parks opening full time, water filling the pull, the long weekend getaway I always want to take on this late May weekend. Its rarely been about me being thankful for those in the service who lost their life. 

So this Memorial Day it will be different. Although some of those things aren't bad and can't be avoided, its not the reason for the day. Today, I will choose to celebrate Memorial Day. To those currently serving, I tip my hat to you in gratitude. Its a great sacrifice I see in the men and women today that are willing to give up their families, friends, jobs, and lives to protect our country.

To those who have lost their life in the line of duty (and to the supportive friends and family), today I honor you. I thank you. I appreciate you. I salute you. This day is to remember you and the impact you have made without ever knowing your name. Happy Memorial Day. Blessings.