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Memorial Day 2025

This upcoming weekend is a strange one. Like everyone else, I view Memorial Day weekend as the start of summer. It's a time for grilling out, spending time with friends and family, swimming (if you don't mind the water still being pretty cool), and sunshine. For the last 20 years, though, it's also been a day of remembrance. It's the day that reminds me of my brother's sacrifice in Najaf, Iraq, when he gave his life to protect freedom. It's the day I'm reminded of so many loved ones who chose honor and sacrifice over ease and peace. So as you enjoy your weekend, I would ask you to take just a minute to honor those who gave their all...and remember those who love them.

I've posted this before, but it's been a long time. I can't tell you when I wrote this, and I'm not much of a poet. Despite that, in these words you get a tiny glimpse of the relationship I shared with my brother...and why he is still so missed.

***

 You taught me to be strong
         when others saw me as weak.
 You told me I could do anything
         if I set my heart on it.
 You showed me how to stand
         when those around me crumble.
 You encouraged me to follow my dreams
         even though it may be hard.
 You pushed me to do my best
         even if it's not acknowledged.
 You led me down the narrow road
         even though it was never popular.
 You listened to me
         when no one else would.
 You comforted me
         when no one else could.
 you were my teacher,
                my confidant,
                my example,
                my encourager,
                my leader.
 Because of you,
                        I know how to keep going.

~for my brother.
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Thoughts? I would love to hear them!
~Mandy

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