In the US we celebrate Memorial Day this weekend to remember those who died while serving in the military. No matter what side of the conflict we are on, those giving their lives to support the ideals of the state, is noble and worthy of honor. You may not agree with the direction of the politics, however the willingness of a soldier to march into conflict and give her life for you and your country is mind boggling. In war or during training for war, lives are laid down to ensure the lives we live, can be maintained or enhanced. While this Memorial Day weekend is about those military that have fallen, it is also an opportunity to reflect on others that invest in our lives and how we give them honor. The cop walking the beat or even when you are pulled over for speeding, the school teacher spending his own money for supplies, the guys that visit those incarcerated or those serving at the food shelter. We are surrounded by people giving their most precious finite resource, their lives, for the good of others. Keeping your eyes open for such kindnesses will inspire gratitude and provide opportunities to say thank-you to the living. This will provide specific instances of personal encounters, so when memorial days arrive, your memory is flooded with individuals who have sacrificed for you.

Who are those in your family that have served in the military and even given their lives? How do you remember those that have made the ultimate sacrifice for you? What is one step you can take to show honor? How can you learn more about those that sacrifice for you?