With all of the super sales, barbecues, and gorgeous weather, it’s easy to get distracted and ignore the real reason for our long weekend. Memorial Day commemorates our fallen soldiers, men and women who fought for their country, sacrificing themselves so that we can be free.

When I was a little girl, my cousin Mark went to go fight for his country. His grandfather, my great-uncle, had been a chaplain in WWII, and had inspired Mark to become a Marine. I prayed for Mark every day, that he would keep us safe and be safe, and that he could come home to us soon. On April 3, 2003, he was shot and died in Iraq. He was a young man, with his whole life ahead of him, and he gave that up for us. I miss him constantly, and I try to remember him, especially on Memorial Day. Mark, and hundreds of thousands like him are why offices are closed and kids do not have school today, but are free to learn and grow safely every day. That is the ultimate gift, more than any 20% off sale at Gap, or delicious burger on the beach. Take a moment to appreciate their lives. Don’t forget them.

“A hero is someone who has given his or her life to something bigger than oneself.” -Joseph Campbell