As we get older, we tend to forget the true meaning of some aspects of life, especially American holidays. When they land in the summer, we especially forget to reflect on the true reason why we are celebrating. We are too caught up on cookouts, spending time at the beach, and the extra day off work. We need to go back to when Americans really knew the true meaning of Memorial Day, and not just an excuse to sit on the beach with a drink in hand all day.

If you don't know or fail to remember, Memorial Day is to honor and reflect on the fallen soldiers of our military. These men and women gave up their lives to save others back home and their fellow soldiers. They have done more than most of us, and their bravery needs to be appreciated.

This Memorial Day, go to a service and hear a veteran talk, help put flags at the grave of those soldiers who were lost, or visit Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C. Visiting this part of American history is great no matter what day, but will have a special place in your hear near Memorial Day when you see all the flag of the fallen ones.

Also, take time and watch the soldier who is always protecting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This is the resting place of soldiers from WWI, WWII, Korea, and Vietnam that were not identified and sent back to their families. Their tomb is guarded 24/7 and you can watch them change guards if you visit the cemetery (It's a really cool thing to see).

Remember that without our military, the U.S. would be completely different. We all know at least one person who has served in the military. Think what it would be like if there was no military, or if you lost that person you know. Now relate that to how many families felt during the major times of war. Men were drafted and women were to care for the children and either wait until someone knocked on the door with their words of condolences, or their soldier returned unharmed. In all the wars that the U.S. has been a part of, we have lost over 1.1 million of our soldiers.

You may think I'm a bit biased that I feel that we have lost the true meaning of Memorial Day and other summer U.S. holidays. I grew up in a military family where I was always reminded of the true meaning and knew many of our military men and women. I have spent countless days on military bases and hearing stories of fighting overseas. But that is all relative. I am certainly not the only one who feels that we need to reconnect and think about what the extra long weekend is all about. A true American and one who loves their country really knows the meaning of Memorial Day, Veteran's Day, and other military significant holidays.

Don't say, "Thank you America for the warm weather, endless beer, and food," and start saying, "Thank you for serving our country and allowing me to live my life without endless amounts of fear."

So this Memorial Day, forget the beers, burgers, bikinis, and beaches, and go to a parade, visit cemeteries, thank a veteran (on Veteran's Day and every time you have the chance, like you should) or even spend time with our veterans who are in the Veteran's Home near you. Make a difference in a veteran's life, it could come back to make a difference in your life.