POWIP Piece of Work In Progress – Former Abode of Dan Collins

Memorial Day, 2011

An excuse for most to enjoy an extra day off of work.   For many, a reason to get together with friends and family a share a pleasant afternoon " grillin' and chillin' ".  And to others who are blessed to live at or near the seashore, as I do, it marks the official beginning of summertime...

These are all wonderful pursuits, and it's my wish that everyone enjoy the day to the utmost.

But I also would ask that we all take a moment to consider what the motivation for this holiday really is; a day to remember the men and women who have paid the ultimate price to safeguard and preserve our freedoms here at home.  Few said it as well as President Reagan in 1982; I recommend you take a moment to read the short passage.

And, as honored, and flattered, as I am when folks offer me their regards and thanks for service on this day, I confess that I also have to take a moment to politely clarify that Memorial day is not intended to honor me, a humble use-ta-be; that's the motivation behind Veterans day...

No indeed, it's to honor what every use-ta-be will tell you are the real heroes; the warriors they served with who left it all on the battlefield; who gave the fullest measure of devotion when duty called and their nation needed them.  To those who gave all of their tomorrows, to ensure that we could enjoy ours.

So in the course of today's festivities, I ask that you take a moment to remember them all; to perhaps drink a toast in their memory.

And if you're so inclined to pray, join me now:

Father in heaven, we pray that You pull close to you the souls of all who have sacrificed themselves in order to protect us all here at home.  We thank You for seeding such people amongst us; for gracing ordinary folk the extraordinary courage, strength, poise, and resolve to do so in the moment when it is absolutely necessary.  And we thank You for gracing their surviving loved ones with all they need to carry on with their lives.

And, Dear God, please continue to watch over the young men and women who are far from home, at the tip of the spear, on this day. God bless them and keep them. Keep Your face turned toward them. Protect them with Your strong right hand; let no weapon formed against them prosper.  Father we pray that when their individual tours of duty are done that they can come home to live and prosper amidst the love of their families and friends for many years to come.

And that in Your time, there will be an end to war for us all. In Jesus' name...

Happy Memorial day to all. May God bless you all, and may He continue to bless the United States of America.

Rocketman