Proud to be an American

And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free,

and I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me and I'll proudly stand next to him to defend her still today, 'cuz there ain't no doubt I love this land, God bless the USA.      
                          ~Lee Greenwood

                          

I love this song, it sums up how I feel about this beautiful land that I love and I'm so grateful for our brave men and women who we honor this Memorial Day weekend by decorating their graves and we also remember our loved ones who have gone before us with floral tributes, too.  

This cemetery is where I placed flowers at the gravesites today of my parents, both sets of grandparents and my two brothers.   And numerous other relatives.  The tree in the center was planted by my father behind my mother's headstone over 30 years ago. 

I was surprised by the lack of flags this year.  Usually they have flags at all of the veteran's graves, but maybe they are just late getting it done this year.   I hope that the younger generations will remember our fallen heroes as well as their loved ones and continue this tradition of "Decoration Day" and not just let it be a 3 day holiday where they only think of barbeques and good times.   Let us never forget.  

The following poem is one that speaks to me.  

WHEN I AM GONE

When I come to the end of my journey

And I travel my last weary mile,

Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned

And remember only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken;

Remember some good I have done.

Forget that I ever had heartache

And remember I've had loads of fun.

Forget that I've stumbled and blundered

And sometimes fell by the way.

Remember I have fought some hard battles

And won, ere the close of the day.

Then forget to grieve for my going.

I would not have you sad for a day,

But in summer just gather some flowers

And remember the place where I lay.

And come in the shade of evening

When the sun paints the sky in the west

Stand for a few moments beside me

And remember only my best.

                                     ~ Mrs. Lyman Hancock 

I always try to go to the cemetery in the evening, it is so peaceful.  So how about you?  Did you have someone whose gravesite you decorated with flowers?  

Have a wonderful weekend!

Until next time...