'Courage is almost a contradiction in terms ...'

G.K. Chesterton said, “Courage is almost a contradiction in terms. It means a strong desire to live taking the form of a readiness to die.”

This quote speaks to my heart. So often, we are called to stand up for the things that we believe in – but very rarely are we called to die for what we believe. The men and women who serve our country believe so strongly in her, that they take the job.

On Memorial Day, we honor those who have lost their lives while in service to our country. Some served willingly; others dutifully served because their number was called.

For those of us who, like me, have not endured the horrors of war, have not set foot on a battlefield, have never known the fear juxtaposed to bravery, we will never understand that sacrifice. However, we are called to remember and honor those who have.  Our country is built not only on the bravery of those who have fought for our country, but also on the courage of the men and women who have given their lives in sacrifice.

Memorial Day speaks the raw emotion that Gold Star Families and military brothers and sisters do not dare to express. The flag ceremonies, the speakers, the 21-gun salute, the organizations that put flags on gravesites – so many of those healing, cathartic moments have been cancelled this year.  Our town usually displays military uniforms with honor in the windows of our local shops. Not this year.

This year, a year ravaged by Covid-19 fears and shelter-in-place orders, might have torn down our traditions, but it has not tempered our reverence for those who have given their lives and for the Gold Star Families who feel their loss daily.

As we take in the fresh air and, perhaps, wear clothes other than pajamas this weekend, please do not forget that this day is to honor those men and women who paid the ultimate price. I know far too many Gold Star parents who have lost sons and daughters in service to our country, and one very incredible Gold Star widow who lost her husband. They carry on their children's names and their husband's with dignity and with grace. They live their lives in service of their own – remembering the heavy price their family has paid.

To the many men and women whose courage lives on even in death … the phrase, "thank you" feels much too insignificant for a gratitude that is felt so deeply.

To the families and military brothers and sisters of those taken too soon … my heart aches for you, but I admire the courage you demonstrate each day. I thank you for never letting us forget your son, daughter, brother, sister, father, or mother.  Your tears do not go unnoticed. Thank you for persevering – so that your loved one’s story does not fade away.

“Our flag does not fly because the wind moves it. It flies with the last breath of each soldier who died protecting it.” –Unknown