Memorials? Like or dislike? Probably Both.

Have you ever been admitted to a hospital? Lots of us have though my most recent stint came in the last eighteen months. Did I tell you I had a kidney transplant? (Some of you are saying right now, "Stop with the kidney thing.") Okay, I'll stop, but I am doing well but have to take a lot of . . . Alright, I'll stop.

However, have you also noticed that some hospitals include the word "Memorial" in their name. Jackson Memorial, Berrington Memorial or whatever. I suppose I'm overthinking it, but I'd rather be in a hospital named, Midland Let's Go Home Soon Hospital or something comparable.

Jackie and I attended a memorial service this past weekend for a former neighbor of ours who passed away far too soon, only in his 60's. Of course, it honored him well, many expressed the impact he'd had on their life and the family was encouraged by so many who came.

But it was still sad and difficult. Memorials are rarely accompanied by fun and joy. But on this Memorial Day, I'm confident that it's wise to embrace remembering what we've been blessed with, the sacrifice of so many who gave their lives in service or even in death so that we could live here as we do.

Sure, our country has its weaknesses, challenges and conflicts, but we're still blessed in comparison to most of the world when it comes to benefits, provision and freedom. (Alright, so we have the Kardashians.) And many have given and continue to give their service and life to keep that happening.

So, why take a few minutes or more remembering those who've gone before us and served this country? First, we are reminded to be thankful. We're still here enjoying the fruit of their sacrifice. Many who served don't see that fruit, but served anyway. My dad received the Silver Star for bravery and I never knew it until the last ten years or so. He didn't brag, he just served.

Second, we can be encouraged to fight through our personal battles, to keep going up the mountains we face and not give up. That's what those we're remembering did and their memory can be the inspiration we need to never quit climbing.

We may also become more willing to serve and help others, people who could use a lift, friendship, some inspiration and a person who cares.

In the New Testament we read these words of Jesus who certainly sacrificed for us, "Greater love has no one than this, than that someone lay down their life for their friends." John 15:13. That certainly sums up today. People we know and many we don't gave their lives for their friends and for even many of us who weren't.

Memorials aren't all bad. We just need to remember. Have a sacred, special and thankful Memorial Day.