For Memorial Day, I typically post the poem “In Flander’s Field,” in honor of all those men and women who died serving our country. The poem was written by Lieutenant-Colonel John McCrae to read at the death of his good friend whom he served with during World War I: Lieutenant Alexis Helmer. It was published in December of that same year, 1915.
The poem is written from the point of view of the dead. It talks of their sacrifice as it also encourages us, who are left behind, to continue to live. I encourage all of us to find ways we can not only live our lives but also honor the soldiers who sacrifices everything so we could live our lives in freedom.
In Flanders Fields
In Flanders fields, the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the dead, short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we
lie.
In Flanders Fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hand we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies
grow
In Flanders Fields.
I hope you find some way to honor our fallen war hero’s as they are heroes. They gave everything for the country they loved and the principles our country was founded. They especially fought for the freedom we have. Freedom to live, work, and worship in the way that is meaningful to each person.
Happy Memorial Day!
Peace,
Beth
Beth's Blog 