#Microblog Monday 248: Memorial Day
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Today is Memorial Day in the United States, a day to remember people in the military who have died in service to the US. It should be a somber holiday considering that it is marking countless deaths, but it’s billed as the “official start of summer” and plenty of stores host Memorial Day sales.
It made me think about how I would feel if October 15th––Pregnancy and Infant Loss Remembrance Day––became an excuse for cookouts and pool parties. I would feel really upset to see a day designated to mark something emotional and sacred being used to sell cars or mattresses.
Sending thoughts to everyone who is mourning a loss today. Thank you to everyone who serves in our military and the families who support them.
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8 comments
Agreed. My small town uses it as a way to honor all veterans, and part of the parade includes all living veterans marching. It’s a celebration and not somber but also not completely off message. The sales and pool parties are a bit much.
I was thinking the same thing earlier today. There are many memorials taking place today, but the sales and other hoopla get all the attention.
It must be hard for those directly touched by loss from service to country to see all the pool-openings and sales and commercialization of the holiday. I will admit, I also had a lovely day of being outside and sleeping in and being able to visit a friend with a new baby in the middle of the day. I have been listening to NPR classical music most of the day though, and they have been doing many tributes to pieces relating to the loss and horrors of war, which made for quality reflection time too.
I was reminded at the grocery store the point of Memorial Day and it gave me pause. I have no connections to the military, so it’s easy to forget the purpose of the day. Thanks for the reminder.
Oh wow, that (the sales etc) is pretty horrible. On our equivalent day – ANZAC Day – all shops are shut till 1 pm, as most remembrance services are in the morning.
Well said.
Yes to this. I did see a few “Remember the Day” posts, which is more than usual and so easily noted.
I picked up the holiday shift at work.
I must admit, having Remembrance Day in November, when it’s cold, grey & gloomy, is much more conducive to solemn reflection than if it were in late May. 😉 When I was a kid in Manitoba, EVERYTHING was closed on Remembrance Day. Grocery/convenience stores could stay open but they were subject to hefty fines if they were caught selling anything more than bread & milk. It was mind-blowing to come to Ontario & find all the stores open.