By Joan Endicott
Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday, and known as Memorial Day in 1971. For some, this simply marks the beginning of summer and a three day weekend to rest, relax and enjoy; yet, it is so much more – certainly our most solemn of holidays and a time to pause from our busy lives to honor the incredible sacrifices of those men and women who died while serving in our American military.
Sacrifice: giving up something valuable or important for somebody or something else considered to be of more value or importance. (Encarta)
I so appreciate the comments of best-selling author and successful business owner, Harvey Mackay, regarding the significance of Memorial Day and business in America. “Our whole democracy survives because we have brave men and women who fight to protect our way of life. What we have in America simply doesn’t exist anywhere else in the world. We all have the chance to study what interests us, work where we choose to work, take risks and fail and try again. We sell our products on the free market, hire from a well-educated and motivated workforce, grow our businesses without limits if we are successful, and make a fair profit. We go to sleep at night knowing the morning will bring another opportunity.”
Mackay continued, “We owe our freedom to those who are willing to defend it. As a businessman who has realized the American dream, I understand that the sacrifices of our valiant service people have enabled us to live free and pursue our opportunities. We take our liberty for granted, but as the saying goes, freedom isn’t free. We owe such a great debt to those who have died wearing an American uniform, or lived to tell about it … is one day a year enough?” I couldn’t agree more!
Having had loved ones who served in the military and others who currently do, I’ve seen what an enormous sacrifice they and their families make to do what they do every day for the love of their country. I am not only proud to be an American, I get a lump in my throat and misty eyed when I hear the National Anthem played as Old Glory is proudly presented.
To those of you who have sacrificed so much for your fellow Americans, we humbly “Thank You!” and hope you feel our love and appreciation! May we honor you even further by passing on a clear understanding of the incredible value and significance that your patriotism means for all of us – in business and life.
Award-Winning Speaker, Author / Founder of “I Get To!”®and Certified High Performance® Coach, Joan Endicott’s mission is to inspire and instruct others on how to improve their business and lives and achieve their goals. For fresh inspiration, “Like” her business face book page:www.JoanEndicott.com or call (208) 453-8056.
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