Memorial Day and Memorial Day weekend is an important time in America. Sure, the weekend serves as the unofficial start of summer with many hosting or attending outdoor barbeques, which seem to be the typical all-American celebration of choice this time of year (we had ours yesterday). But more importantly, it is a day to give thanks and pay tribute to those who gave their lives to protect our country and honor our fallen soldiers.

In 2000, The National Moment of Remembrance was established by Congress requesting that Americans pause and observe a national moment of unity and remembrance for one minute beginning at 3 p.m. their local time. In addition to the National Moment of Remembrance, President Obama designated today as a day of prayer for permanent peace and reserved 11 a.m. for people to unite in prayer. 

On Memorial Day, I don’t only want to remember the combatants. There were also those who came out of the trenches as writers and poets, who started preaching peace; men and women who have made this world a kinder place to love.   –Eric Burdon

Whatever it is you choose to do today, remember to reserve time for reflection on the real meaning of Memorial Day. It’s not about grilled hot dogs and hamburgers…its about giving thanks and showing appreciation for those who have protected our country and sacrificed their lives in the process. That my friends, is the ultimate sacrifice.   – -xoxo, V.

Original photo taken in Carmel, California by Vanessa for Reviving Charm.