The actuality of Memorial Day

Memorial Day was observed on May 30 for a number of years. For me, it still is the most appropriate day to remember, to honor, to renew. The photograph captures what I believe is the actuality and the essence of Memorial Day. The poem, published in 1624 by English poet and cleric John Donne, reflects the feelings which I believe should be in the heart of each of us. The videos provide lessons of the price many pay to ensure freedom for all Americans. This is the final of two posts ....

Meditation XVII by John Donne

No man is an island,
Entire of itself,
Every man is a piece of the continent,
A part of the main.
If a clod be washed away by the sea,
Europe is the less.
As well as if a promontory were.
As well as if a manor of thy friend's
Or of thine own were:
Any man's death diminishes me,
Because I am involved in mankind,
And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls;
It tolls for thee.