Remembering Those Who Have Fallen

When I was ten, I wrote a letter to the editor for Memorial Day. I remember it because it was the first time I had seen my name in print, in the newspaper. I wish I had saved it, but I’m sure I used 10-year-old language to say “thank you” to all the men and women who had given their lives in service, and my 10-year-old self wanted everyone to show their appreciation by thanking the veterans who were still alive.

Some things don’t change.

On this Memorial Day, I hope you will find a way to support the brave souls that sacrifice time with their families to put themselves in harm’s way, all to defend the freedoms that we take for granted every day.

One way would be to send a soldier a card. You don’t have to be a writer to pen a short note of thanks that will be a welcome reminder of the support our armed forces have at home. But if you are a writer, put some heart into that note – I promise you won’t regret it.

Another way to help would be to donate a book written specifically to help children deal with a parent who comes home from service in a wheelchair. Bibliotherapy is what my mom, the psychologist, calls it when books help people heal. I call it one more reason why books are important for children.

There are a thousand ways to show thanks, and I hope you will find yours today. To the veterans, my most profound gratitude for all you have given, all you have lost, and for the tremendous courage you show when you answer that call to duty.

Thank you!