As a citizen of this country, it seems disheartening to me that we have gotten away from the true meaning of things. Holiday after holiday, we become so wrapped up in the social pressures and the material aspects of life that we often forget to stop and remember why we have this three-day weekend or blowout furniture sale going on. It is so discouraging that we are moving forward without taking the time to appreciate and honor the sacrifices made to protect what is ours today.

Memorial Day is defined as, "a day of remembrance for those who have died in service of the United States of America."

Without the tireless sacrifice of this nation's men and women who have fought wars for our freedom, we would not be so privileged to the lives we live today. Many of the Centennial generation or even the Millennial generation have parents and grandparents who have served this nation or who are currently serving. Many of whom have lost their lives. It is without a doubt in my mind that I owe these men and women my utmost respect.

I think sometimes we tend to be so focused on the future we forget to look at our past because the past is the past, right? In doing so, we leave behind the memory, respect, and remembrance for those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. I understand Memorial Day is set aside to honor those who have died in service but it seems we are beginning to forget about our living veterans as well. How hard is it to say a simple thank you or shake the hand of a man wearing a 'WWII veteran' ball cap at the grocery store or the local burger place? These men and women, living or deceased, were selfless in their duty to protect and ensure the future of our nation. It saddens me that we have turned a day meant to honor them into a day of department store sales and a meaningless weekend at the lake.

Our society is rapidly changing and constantly on the go it sometimes seems hard to keep up. It makes sense that often we lose track of little things here and there and look for a break when one is given. Trust me I fall guilty to this more times than I'd like to admit. I just ask that as you embark on Memorial Day this weekend, please take a few minutes of your day to think about, remember, and honor those who so graciously gave their lives to protect ours.