As Monday, May 30, 2016 neared, I found myself pondering the truth concerning what Memorial Day is and what it isn't. My search began with me mulling over the concepts behind the holiday on Google. I quickly realized content about the commemorative day fell into two distinct categories. Category One featured articles and think pieces that revolved around food, shopping and traveling on Memorial Day. And then there was Category Two which displayed columns and essays that criticized what Memorial Day has become; this category showed pieces that discussed the true meaning of the holiday. I deduced that Memorial Day either represented the beginning of summer and barbecues, or it represented a day of reflection and commemoration for those who have served in the Armed Forces.
For me personally, Memorial Day has never been presented as something of much importance. It's merely been a day where I go to Old Navy for their 50 percent off sale (until 5/30), eat grilled food and maybe catch a TV special. However, I know for a fact that there are others who do not take such shallow views of this holiday. Seeing as how there is no one in my immediate family that truly regards Memorial Day as a day of remembrance and honor respectfully, I called a good friend of mine who comes from a military family to receive their take on the national holiday.
As I shared my thoughts, opinions and findings of Memorial Day, the conversation became slightly strained. I gathered that my upbringing in respect to the holiday could be akin to the think pieces found in Category One. To someone like me, a person that has virtually no compelling ties to America's military, Memorial Day is almost like a frivolous holiday. But to someone like my friend, a person whose entire family has served proudly for generations, Memorial Day brings a strong sense of pride and thanks. It's not about the sales, the food and the hoopla that comes with traveling and making plans because it's a federal holiday, so everyone has the day off. It's a day that represents a togetherness and honor for the family and country.
While I am aware of what Memorial Day should truly represent, to me Memorial Day does not necessarily convey what it was intended to because the holiday has been monetized to death: to the point where for many, Memorial Day means going out, shopping, spending money and buying patriotic clothing.
I do have a deep-seated respect and thanks for all of those who have served. However, there is simply no personal and profound connection to Memorial Day for me. The significance of Memorial Day will differ from citizen to citizen in America, but regardless of our thoughts and opinions on what Memorial Day truly means, we should all take a moment and send out thanks and good intentions to the people in which Memorial Day was truly intended for.
