By Ralphine Major

Our great American flag.  It is a symbol of our freedom.  She is seen at parades, in schools and churches, on flagpoles in front yards of homes, and in community centers.  It is not unusual to see the American flag flying proudly on trucks as they drive by.  Sometimes we hear people say they are so thankful that their flag was saved from a fire.  Nowhere is her presence more revered than when given in memoriam of a fallen service member.

The month of May is packed with special occasions including Mother’s Day and the start of many graduations.  Before the month is totally gone, another national holiday is recognized.    Often referred to as the start of the summer season, Memorial Day gives us reason to pause and pay tribute.  The end-of-month holiday is more a time of remembrance than celebration.  This year will surely have special meaning as we recall the tremendous loss of America’s heroes in Afghanistan last year.  U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Ryan Knauss from East Tennessee was among those who sacrificed his life on foreign soil.  On Memorial Day 2022, may we remember the many who have sacrificed their lives for America.

Words of Faith: “Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast.” Psalm 57:1 (KJV).