We tend to gloss over the intention behind Memorial Day each year as we prep for a long weekend full of good food, games, and time at the beach. But to be clear: We wouldn’t be able to enjoy any of those things without others’ sacrifices.

To keep this truth top of mind as we approach the holiday weekend, Darlene Brock and Julie Bender walk through the history of the national holiday and share the startling numbers of those lost in recent wars. There is a depth and gravity to the topic that’s worthy of honor and remembrance, including the first recorded Memorial Day celebration in which former slaves from Charleston, South Carolina, gathered to honor the Union soldiers lost during the war in 1865.

If you’ve felt removed from the reason for Memorial Day, we urge you to take a listen to this short but meaningful podcast episode.

Quote of the episode:

“We should honor and remember the sacrifice of those who have [answered the call to go off and fight a war], and even immensely more those who have given their lives on the battlefield.”—Julie Bender

Resources

Related

Learn more about how the Wounded Warrior Project honor and supports veterans

Mentioned

Read more about the first recorded Memorial Day celebration here
Check out the Smart Living book series here!

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Why We Can’t Forget the Reason for Memorial Day – 282