Don’t Forget
May 31, 2016
We just celebrated Memorial Day. It is a day set aside to remember those who have given their lives for our country. Over the years, though, it has come to mean a day set aside to remember all of those who have gone on before us into eternity. It’s a day to say I remember you. People do that in a variety of ways. Beautiful new flowers replace last year’s faded ones in the cemeteries. Flags are flown on the streets of our city. Facebook is full of tributes to those that we want everyone to remember.
People have asked me many times over the years what they can do to help a friend of theirs who is grieving the loss of someone they love.
The answer is easy. Don’t forget.
If you know his birthday, then send a note that says I remember this funny story about him. If you know that Fourth of July was their favorite holiday, then take her to see some fireworks and talk about him. If you remember that she loved coconut cream pie, then the next time you have some, call and say I was just thinking about her while eating this delicious pie. Mark the day he died on your calendar and send a card that says you remember and you are praying for her today. If it’s a holiday and you know he will be alone, call and see if he wants to join your family. Maybe he will, maybe he won’t, but he will appreciate that you remembered him. When you find an old picture, make a copy and give it to her, or post it on facebook.
Just remember. Because even if she hasn’t talked about it in a long time, even if she doesn’t act like it’s bothering her today, she still remembers. Sometimes she just doesn’t say anything because she thinks people get tired of listening.
Don’t forget.
I am very happy that you have found another way to help people, that is one of the qualities I remember most your willingness to lift someones spirit even if yours needed lifting also
Thank you for sharing. I have to think about this and share stories with Tracy and kids.