Today, Americans have many holidays people appreciate just because they have a day off of work or school, even a reason to celebrate. What many people do not realize is the true purpose of these holidays.

As many of you know, Memorial Day is on Monday, May 30 this year. Memorial Day was formerly known as, “Decoration Day” until the name was changed in the early seventies. This day is intended to honor those who have died serving for the United States of America.

On this day, Americans visit cemeteries to lay flowers, notes, and other gems to remember a friend or family member who had lost their life fighting for this country.

I believe this holiday is not appreciated enough, because without those who have fought and those who will continue to fight for the safety of this country, as a nation, we would be in great danger. We would not have security and safety to live in a safe, war-free environment. Those soldiers are like the locks to the door of your home. Without it, someone could break in and damage you and your property, and I can guarantee no one would want that to happen.

Memorial day is not only for those who have served and fallen, but also those who serve and still rise. This day is near and dear to me because I have family members who have served in the military and I have friends who are currently serving. I pray for them every single day of my life that God watches over them to keep them safe and healthy.

So although this day is an excuse to kick back, crack open a beer and enjoy a nice barbeque, realize you are allowed to do this because men and women have fought for your freedom and safety to be able to enjoy such a lifestyle. I hope that on this day every American takes a second to appreciate those who fight for us.

This is to the Military: may God bless you all and thank you for your service.

And to those who have fallen: thank you as well for dying in honor, for myself and other Americans’ safety.