Memorial Day 2020: Reflections and Family Reunion
Memorial Day is a significant and often emotional time for many Americans, marked by parades, flower-laying, and remembrance. This year, 2020, brought unique experiences and new memories to crafting.
In 2020, my favorite aspect of Memorial Day was participating in a Veteran of Foreign Wars (VFW) ceremony at a local cemetery and our town's Heroes Memorial. However, the highlight of the day was a spontaneous parade led by about fifty bikers. They made several rounds past two retirement communities, with residents enthusiastically waving flags and waving back from their porches. My grandson and I rode together, sharing in the warmth and spirit of the moment.
Flowers and Nostalgia
Placing flowers on the graves of my loved ones is a cherished tradition for me. This year, my daughter and granddaughter joined me, adding to the meaningful experience. I also enjoyed listening to Trace Atkins' rendition of 'Arlington,' which beautifully captures the essence of the day.
A Canadian Perspective
While Memorial Day is celebrated in the United States, it is not a national holiday in Canada. Instead, we commemorate the fallen soldiers on November 11th, known as Remembrance Day. BBQs and sale promotions do not occur on this solemn day.
Reflections on Being a Veteran and Memorial Day
Living in an independent living facility for U.S. veterans, I had the opportunity to appreciate the lives of the men and women who served their country. They were in their seventies, eighties, and nineties, and their stories and experiences added depth to the celebration of Memorial Day.
Family Reunion
One of the most memorable parts of the day was a family reunion that led to a deeper connection with my daughter and her estranged husband. After years of estrangement and anger, my middle sister and I reconnected in a heartfelt and meaningful way.
It all began when my sister started joining us for casual gatherings. Initially, she was reluctant to join in any family activities, but slowly, a change occurred. Christmas saw a significant improvement in her demeanor, and her warmth towards the family was evident. In early January, she initiated a conversation about getting together for lunch.
The long-awaited lunch date turned into a reunion. She arrived laughing, hugging me, and we spent the next two hours catching up. Throughout our conversation, she revealed that the reasons for our estrangement were vastly different from what she had previously thought. She confessed that the reasons her estranged husband attributed to her were not true.
We delved deeper into understanding each other's lives and choices. Reflecting on a difficult childhood and the paths we took as individuals, we realized that our circumstances and decisions had led us to different, but valid, outcomes. This newfound understanding brought us closer and helped mend the broken connection over the years.
A Day of Reconciliation and Joy
Our connection led to more gatherings, and this Memorial Day, the entire family, including my estranged sister and her husband, gathered for the holiday. It was a day filled with laughter, joy, and catching up on old times. Celebrating my nephew's birthday added another layer of happiness to the day. We laughed, played games, and the family's joy was palpable.
The reunion was not just a momentary feel-good experience but the beginning of a new chapter for our family. We now communicate frequently, and holidays bring the entire family together, as it did during our last gathering. The bond we share is stronger than ever, a testament to the power of understanding and forgiveness.
Conclusion
Memorial Day 2020 was more than just a day of remembrance. It was a day of reflection, understanding, and family. The experiences shared here reflect the complex emotions and reunions that can happen during these special moments. It is a reminder that even in the face of estrangement and pain, finding common ground and understanding can lead to a stronger, more loving family bond.