A complete stranger once believed you were worth it.

They never considered it optional, and always counted themselves lesser than the greater good. And because of it, now they are free from a nation they freed, yet lost to the lives they saved.

They wonder from the heavens in valor and silence at those of this barbecuing and too often forgetful nation who mark it up as an occupational hazard.

Happy Memorial Day isn’t entirely about being happy, but about taking one solitary thankful moment of silent honor away from people, pools and grills in prayer to recall the merits and consequences of their sacrifices made at any price. Indeed, the highest one.

Then go back and eat your burger, jump in the water, hang with your family and friends and for that reason be very, very happy that a complete stranger in history once believed you were worth it.