No day in the year is more typically American than Memorial Day. Its roots go deep into our national character. We have as a people, profound and abiding respect for courage and bravery which binds us closely to those who have died in battle. Here in America, life – the life of each individual – is a very dear and precious thing, not to be taken lightly. And death, the antithesis of life, therefore assumes great proportion and significance.
Decoration Day, as it was first called, originated in the South shortly after the War Between the States and was later adopted by most of the other states. Because it brought large numbers to the cemeteries and called attention to graves in general, it gradually enlarged upon its original significance and became an occasion for decorating, repairing, and otherwise paying respect to the graces of family and friends who had passed.
This day should not only be a day of remembrance, it should be primarily a day pointing to the necessity of continuous worship and prayer for the peace and healing of this nation.
At no time in all its history has this nation needed more to bow in prayer for strength and light, never has it been more in need of the ancient ideals for which hundreds of thousands of brave and unselfish patriots gave their lives.
Memorial Day once again brings face to face with ideals well worthwhile; ideals that should cause us to hear with appreciation the “choir invisible,” calling us back to communion with the shades of Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Jackson, Lee, and Lincoln. From them, we may learn what is needed to heal this nation’s ills and woes.
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