Because of this handsome man, I knew December 7th, 1941 before I knew my birth date. As early as I can remember, my dad taught me to respect the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice so that we can all live free.
Maybe it was the death of my cousin Johnny in Vietnam or maybe it was the years of service he dedicated to the military. Regardless, I was taught at a very young age that my freedom isn’t free. It comes with a cost.
I get to slow dance with my daddy at every wedding, kneel to honor a life at every funeral and everything in between because of those who gave it all.
Today, I raise my children the same way. Whenever we see someone in the military or a first responder we say “thank you for keeping us safe.” I’ve watched the toughest of toughest men break into a gushy smile after my children utter these words. Maybe they don’t hear it enough…but I want them to know who they are sacrificing their lives everyday for. And we see you.
This year we may celebrate Memorial Day weekend differently, whether it’s hunkering down or venturing back out into the world…but one thing is certain.
We are free, because of the all the men and women who sacrificed it all🇺🇸 Life is precious. Enjoy the ride.
by @lucyriles
