Let's face it, we all appreciate a day off from work – especially because many of us are grading right now and have grades due this week. Swimming pools opened in most communities on this past weekend and backyard barbecues will be prolific today. Fewer communities still have parades. And fewer American flags seem to festoon our homes and streets than in past decades.
We do not want to forget the meaning behind this day. It is held in memory of those who have died defending our freedoms as Americans.
In 2000 President Clinton issued a memorandum to heads of Executive Departments and Agencies asking that each unit take part in:
"Encouraging individual department and agency personnel, and Americans everywhere, to pause for one minute at 3:00 p.m. (local time) on Memorial Day, to remember and reflect on the sacrifices made by so many to provide freedom for all."
Although I hope we enjoy our day off, I also hope we will take a few moments to remember the significance of the day. The rule of law has been protected through the sacrifice of many who have gone before us. (Amy Jarmon)
