More thoughts from the cradle:
May 27, 2005
The Stars and Stripes headline on May 25 2005 was, “Explosion, attacks kill 8 U.S. trops in Iraq- Deaths bring to 13 the number of American lives lost since Sunday”
As this is Memorial Day, my thoughts went to all of those for whom Memorial Day holds a special sadness a second funeral day. The loved ones of the men and women whose memory is celebrated on this solemn day do not consider this just another day off, the beginning of the BBQ season, or the preordained time when women can where white shoes. This is a day where they are forced to face their loss once more.
What is there to say to those who still grieve? There is a letter that is read during “Saving Private Ryan” that I feel is most appropriate.
Dear Madame,
I have been shown in the files of the War Department a statement from the Adjuvant General of Massachusetts, that you are the mother of five sons who have died gloriously on the field of battle.
I feel how weak and fruitless must be any words of mine that would attempt to beguile you from the
grief of a loss so overwhelming. I cannot refrain from tendering to you the consolation that maybe
found in the thanks of the Republic they died to save. I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the
anguish of your bereavement and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost and the
solemn pride that must be yours to laid so costly a sacrifice upon the alter of freedom.
Yours very sincerely and respectfully,
Abraham Lincoln
My sincere thanks and prayers are with those who are saddened by Memorial Day. Let us all remember the sacrifice of those we celebrate today.
Soli Deo Gloria
More thoughts to come
Posted by Tim at May 26, 2005 08:53 PM
