Memorial Day 2012

If you're in the USA, you probably know that today is Memorial Day. Hopefully that means that you are spending the day with family and friends, grilling hot dogs and hamburgers, and generally enjoying the fact that it is Monday and you aren't at work.

If you managed to get lucky (like a few of my friends who are currently bragging about their weekend), you might be at the Indianapolis 500. 

It's easy to get lost in the fun of the day and forget to take note of what the day is really about. Memorial Day has been in practice since the late 1800s for the purpose of remembering the men and women of the armed forces who have given their lives for our country.

We have a lot to be thankful for in this country, but that has come at a cost. More than 1 million troops have been killed defending our freedom (and the freedom of others) around the world. Of course, the cost doesn't stop there. Those individuals have families and friends who are affected. In Nursing Second Chances, my heroine's sister is grieving the loss of her husband who was killed in battle.

If you know someone who is or has served, take a moment today to thank them. They are putting their lives on the line so you don't have to. And, of course, don't forget to remember those who are no longer with us.