INSPIRASUNS

Today we will participate in one of my favorite holiday traditions, the annual Wreaths Across America ceremony. No matter where we have been in this country, we have participated. This organization is, in my opinion, simply one of the BEST. Their mission is simple to lay a wreath at the headstone of every veteran.

This ceremony is one of the most respectful ceremonies, besides the actual funeral service at a national cemetery, that I’ve had the fortune of participating in. You see when you place the wreath at the headstone of the veteran you are asked to not rush but to stop and say his or her name and thank them for their service. It’s an emotional process, but it is one of the most loving and humble acts I think we as civilians can perform.

Over the years, at various cemeteries we have witnessed families bringing their kids, retired veterans, boy scout troupes, and other groups attend. It’s great to see our youth not only participate in this ceremony but to understand why it occurs. It’s an act of gratefulness and honor, and one that should be understood by our youth so it’s carried forward.

If you’ve not participated in one of the Wreaths Across America events, I encourage you to. It takes place on the 3rd Saturday of December. You can do a quick search on their website to find a cemetery near you. If you can’t attend you can help by just donating a wreath to be placed around the country.

These last few years, since moving to Florida, my husband and I have been fortunate to participate at the Florida National Cemetery where my father is buried. Today I will, with my stepmom, place a wreath at my father’s headstone, I’ll say his name and thank him for his service. And, I’ll tell him how much I miss him and can’t wait to see him again.

Lord of the nations, we honor the bravery and sacrifice of those who served. Grant us similar courage to recognize and restrain evil in our own day, and may those who lead the nations of the world work together to defend human liberty, that we may live peaceably one with another.
This we ask in the name your Son, our Savior Jesus Christ.
Amen.