Memorial Day: Remember & Appreciate Your Freedoms

“What we obtain too cheap, we esteem too lightly.” – Thomas Paine

As American citizens, we have many individual freedoms that other people around the world may not be as lucky to possess. These freedoms and rights enable us to live our lives with the knowledge we can express ourselves and state our feelings freely. As we celebrate, one of the most important things we can do is appreciate our freedoms.

For many, appreciating our freedoms simply means living life to the fullest. But there are other, simple things we can do to show our appreciation: get out and vote, start a small business, practice freedom of religion, save and spend your money as you see fit, wear the type of clothing you want. All these freedoms sound trivial, but there are places in the world where you wouldn’t be able to do these things. It’s also important to take the time to teach your children about the history of our country. Ask them what they already know, and you might be surprised what’s missing in their education

Especially now, we should be thankful for all of the freedoms we enjoy each day. Today, make it a point to consider those freedoms and to thank those who have served in maintaining them. Visit a war memorial and/or a cemetery and place flowers on the graves of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Show your appreciation with a properly flown flag. Most of all, stand up for your country and the people who have fought to defend your rights.