The Author Post: Blog #9, "In Memory Of..."

As I reflect on this somber weekend, I think back to my history books and the teachings of all the memories of past wars that our brave American troops fought in, and knowing that none of those who lost their precious lives died in vain.  We think of all those who survived the war, but have since passed on.  We think of all those who were injured, some beyond repair, who live with those injuries.  We think of all those loved ones who have gone before us and the thoughts, dreams and influence they had on our lives.

As a writer, I look beyond the ordinary thoughts of yesterday, going a step further to emphasize all the faded moments when their lives were rich and thriving, humble and distinguished.  I look beyond those thoughts of ideas, dreams, and excitement they once knew, that we must keep alive for the sake of our children and the ones who remain.  I look beyond to a place of complete tranquility, that rests on all of what they stood for here on earth, a place which remains in our hearts as treasured memories.

If we trace back through the years, dating back to the American Civil War from April 12, 1861- April 9, 1865, we remember that the casualties out-numbered any other war fought in our country.  620,000+ lost their lives in battle, by disease, and in enemy camps.  The many individual battles had devastating results of casualties, like the most horrific being The Battle at Gettysburg (51,112), the 2nd being The Battle of  Chickamauga (34,624).  3rd, The Battle at Chancellorsville (30,099), and the list goes on and on...Spotsylvania, Antietam, Wilderness, etc.  

We think of the many wars and hundreds upon hundreds of battles fought like the Revolutionary War,  The World Wars, Vietnam, War of 1812, and the many other wars that Americans participated in, including the war in Iraq and those who perished on September 11, 2001.  The past history of our Great Country, One Nation Under God, makes us proud and sentimental to our leaders and soldiers in the military, and those who led our country to the best of their abilities.

There are also so many in our thoughts, our loved ones that we miss.  I think of my treasured Mother who went to be with the Lord in August of 2007.  I feel her presence each day, her exceptional spirit guiding me into my future.  She was always my encouragement, and still is, even more so today, with whom I dedicate this post to, and also to Nicholas A. DiLeva, Sr., my fiance's wonderful father, a unique and inspiring man who was one of the greatest influences in my life, and truly one of the kindest people I ever knew.  His family, including Tony, means the world to me.

Memories of those we loved from the past, whether 100 years ago or 1 day ago, will always give us a feeling of thankfulness...being thankful that they graced our lives with their smiles and thoughts.

As we look back, we seek rest.  May it give us great comfort knowing that our lives are better and more fulfilled having known them. Let us also know that their lives are greater now, living at the right hand of God in the most splendid of places.  May all our beautiful soldiers, spouses, mothers, fathers, siblings, relatives, friends, teachers and acquaintances live on in our hearts, minds, spirits and souls forever and ever until we meet again.  God Bless You All on this Memorial Day and always.