Memorial Day, Or Is It Decoration Day

Many years ago, we called Memorial Day Decoration Day.  It was also a national holiday that was observed to pay tribute to the many men lost in the Civil War.  I do not remember anyone who took a 2- or 3-day holiday weekend and went camping or boating.  Of course, I do not remember anyone who had a boat or a camper, either.

Our day started out early morning with fresh flowers being picked and wrapped in wet newspapers to keep them fresh; quart canning jars were washed and packed in boxes to take to the cemetery.  Then, early midmorning and as a family, we gathered at the cemetery, filled the jars with fresh, cool water, unwrapped the fresh-picked flowers, placed them in the water-filled jars, then found the perfect spot for them at the headstones of our lost family members and friends.

We used our own flowers; no one I knew used artificial flowers in those long-ago days.  The Spirea and Iris were in bloom at Memorial Day.  With climate change, I noted they were in bloom this year at Easter… way too early to wrap and save for Memorial Day use.  I realize it is the thought that counts, but I think, with my family, it was a labor of love to gather the real homegrown flowers and take care of them.  That showed a lot of love and respect for our fallen loved ones.

Decoration Day was also considered a time to celebrate with our families, gathering for large family dinners and fellowship after our time at the cemetery.

I am glad we still honor our long-ago loved ones with our remembrance at the church and the floral offerings we take to the cemetery, but my memories of the past are a wonderful reminder of that long-ago time when life was a lot simpler.

Memories are a gift from the heart.

Submitted by Ernie Cain

 

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First Christian Church

319 W. Laurel St.
Independence, KS 67301

620-273-2525