Another day off work

and I'm loving it. Of course it is a holiday..sorta. Memorial Day. A day to remember those who have died, specifically in wars or military, but I think people tend to see it as a day to remember all who have died. Some look at it as another day off work.

As I sit here and ponder about today, I think of those who have died. I remember my daddy, whom I barely can remember as he died when I was six, and I look at his picture this morning and wonder what my life would have been like had he lived. I think of my mother, and the way she chose to live her life. Am I so much like her? Do I want to be? I often think of the troubles within my own family and compare that to what my mother had to deal with. I feel her pain. It is real.

I think of my first husband. Yes, I prefer to say first husband more so than 'ex'. He made the choice to be the ex until.... but that is a story that will be buried with me. I loved him; he was my first love, my soulmate, so to speak. No one knows the truth but God. He was Army, served in VietNam and I was so proud of him. It changed him, somewhat.

I think of those that serve/served in the military. My hubby served in the Air Force in Japan in the 50's. My son is currently in reserves, Army, and has served 3 tours. I want him to retire this year as he volunteers and takes the men in his unit as family and the stress is killing him. I won't discuss his marriage or his current situation. He makes it what it is. Just like we all do. I have cousins who served in the Marines, relatives served in the Army. I'm sure other military branches as well. Seems like I had an aunt who served in the coast guard, but am not sure. I need to search my history if I really want to know.

We will be heading over to the daughter's later this morning or early afternoon for a cookout and swim. I made potato salad last night and made enough to give some to my son who won't be going. I asked, but he hasn't responded yet if he wanted some. Maybe I will ask again this morning.

In my devotions this morning it asked: What is one thing you could do to sacrificially serve someone close to you this week? and..... Imagine that you are face to face with Jesus right now. What do you want to say?

The second part grabbed me. What did I think of? Letting Him gather me in His arms and hold me close while I cried until I couldn't cry no longer. Then, maybe my healing could begin.

Blessings.