On Memorial Day 2025, my Dad, age 89, passed on to that which is beyond. Memorial Day is now a reminder of him, his legacy, the times we shared and the times we didn't.

We come to understand, to see, each other anew as the shifts of life unfold. And, a year later, even more is seen. I think this happens as the memories of recency take their proportionate place alongside the entire lifespan, inviting a softening of the edges and a gentler perspective.

This time is designated to reflect on those who gave their lives in support of this country, sometimes willingly and with clarity. Sometimes because they felt they had no choice. And sometimes due to blind, even romanticized, trust.

Asking, demanding, anyone to enter into a situation where the possibility of death is exponentially higher than normal seems a requirement of war and many people agree. I do not pretend to understand this. Part of me admires, part questions, and part is bewildered. And, within it all, there is an honoring and gratitude for these people who did and do defend, protect and serve. 

This is the day we pause to honor those choices and sacrifices. And to reflect on what it is like to come home to ourself, to the timeless, unchanging, universal witnesses that we are. That we ALL are, regardless of location, gender, belief, political, cultural or religious perspective.

May the light of those past, present, and future continue to be invited to shine, to be invited and to be remembered. May we take risks to stand for what we understand to be right and just, to honor inherent differences while at the same time to see the common ground upon which we ALL stand.

This is the legacy invitation, yes?