Memorial Day Reflection

I recall attending countless ceremonies during my husband’s time in the United States Army while he served as the Non-Commissioned Officer in Charge of Ceremonies.  This was a responsibility that held great distinction, responsibility, and honor.  It was always a proud moment for me to be part of the audience observing how the magnificent efforts of planning, preparation, protocol, and coordination came together to honor the various occasions.

The Memorial Day ceremony was especially significant, drawing hundreds to the National Cemetery to honor the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.  It is always a poignant tribute to observe the American flags that donned each grave site.

A point of order of the ceremony is the raising of the flag from half-staff to full staff at noon.  The flag flies at half-staff until noon in honor and respect to each man and woman who sacrificed their lives for this country.

Following this link opens a pdf document that includes information regarding the total number of service members in each conflict as well as the number of deaths.  The numbers are staggering.  The cost of war not only in dollars but in lives affected is overwhelming to comprehend.

What is the solution?  It is very complicated; however it involves research and gaining an understanding of foreign policy.  Part of the solution lies in careful research and consideration of our elected officials. Part of the solution is ensuring that your voice is heard through voting.  The goal is peace; the goal is to live in a world without war.  It does not seem feasible or likely; however, we must continue to advocate for and pray for peace.

President Obama issued a proclamation establishing this Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and reminds us that Congress established the National Moment of Remembrance asking Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time for one minute to honor those who died in service to the United States.

I hope that you are inspired and encouraged to not only enjoy this holiday, enjoy the food, family, and friends; but also to take a moment to pray for peace as well as pause and reflect at 3 p.m.

Peace,

SharB~TTSD

Mother's Day

I have often thought of the many aspects and virtues of motherhood and it probably was not until I became an adult and ventured from home that I realized just how many varying definitions, perceptions, and challenges are involved in the role of motherhood.

A mother has a heart for her child and is able to see their strengths, push them towards their goals and aspirations and reins her child in when they venture too far down the road in the wrong direction.

Whether a career woman or a stay-at-home mom, whether a mother with a newborn baby or a mother with 5 grown children, motherhood is thought to be more challenging today than in years gone by.  Today’s mother aspires to balance home, work, the child’s activities, education and now added to the list is the critical need to keep our children safe.  Gun violence is much more prevalent as is bullying.  Statistics show that hundreds of children have died due to gun violence in this year.  Various illnesses are on the rise such as cancer and diabetes among children and the numbers of mothers and their children who are in poverty and have no food is simply staggering.  Statistics show that approximately 15 million children being raised by single mothers live at or below poverty*.

Armed with this information as well as so much more information available, determine what you can and what you are willing to do.  Determine how you can make a difference from your corner of the world.

*Single Mother Statistics http://singlemotherguide.com/single-mother-statistics/

A reassurance we can always hold on to is our spiritual connection.  I saw my mother lean on the Lord as she faced her challenges of motherhood.  My personal view was of a devoted, tireless, woman who became fragile before my eyes as I became an older teenager.

Whatever challenges life brings you, as a mother, I encourage you to allow God to be your anchor that holds you steady and offers the balance and strength you need.  Trust the Lord in all of your ways; acknowledge him, and trust his direction.

As we approach Mother’s Day 2014, I share with you a poetic tribute I wrote to my mother. My mother, Braddella Elisabeth Brown blessed my sister, brother, and I with excellent mothering and she was taken from this life at the age of 51 on February 18, 1983.

Mother dear you will always be

My mother so loving and so loved by me

You blessed my life in so many ways

Our memories I’ll cherish until the end of my days

You left me too soon and this was not part of our plan

But God’s wishes always come before those of man

Mommy’s heart, though filled with love simply became too weak

She fought the good fight; till finally she reached her peak.

A bond we shared so strong and so true

A bond unlike any other

A bond shared only by a daughter and her mother.

Being with God, she’s found rest and peace

In this I have comfort and some happiness at least

My mother dear you will always be

My Mother so loving and so loved by me.

SharB~TTSD
#TakeTheScaffoldingDown