Greetings to you all,

 It seems like a very long time since I have been in touch with you via these thoughts.  I have missed you!  This Sunday is Jubilation Sunday when we celebrate the children in our church school programs.  It is always a very special day!

 I am actually writing you about NEXT week, looking for some input from you as I gather thoughts about Memorial Day weekend.  Frankly, I have found preaching on Memorial Day weekend has often been difficult.  It is not easy to memorialize, remember, honor those who have died in war without honoring war.  It is not easy to be honest about the need to stand up and fight for what is right without blurring distinctions between what is right and wrong – and from whose perspective?

 I have never served in the military.  When it was time for me to face the draft board, during the Vietnam War, I was put into the draft lottery and drew a very high number that was never called.  I chose to go to graduate school instead of enlisting.  I don’t think I realized then how lucky I was.

 But today I know that the blessings in my life of freedom and choice are a gift directly to me from those men and women who did serve this country, in all the many ways, and especially the many who died doing that.  For a long time in my life I saw Memorial Day weekend as the time to go north and turn on the water at the cottage.  Listening to stories from many people over the years, my father-in-law being an important one, helped me see differently.

 I invite your stories to me.  What does Memorial Day mean to you?  It is too simple a question really – I know that.  But I truly would like to hear your answer.

 May the rest of this week be gentle and warm for you all,

 Jeff