THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE US

 

Memorial Day 2016 near Carnation, WA. Photo by Bobbi.

I have been privileged to visit cemeteries across the country, from Virginia to Washington. Each one holds its own quiet story, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made. At Arlington National Cemetery, I was particularly moved by the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The precision and unwavering dedication of the stoic guards left a lasting impression on me.

At national cemeteries like Tahoma, near Tacoma, WA, military veterans are buried free of charge—a fitting tribute to their service. In contrast, some families have chosen private plots, with gravesites stretching from New York to California to Washington. These resting places vary greatly: some lie in vast, sweeping cemeteries; others in small, almost hidden spaces. Some are marked with headstones, while others remain unmarked. Some of the deceased served in the military, while others did not. Each grave, however, represents a life, a story, and a connection to history.

As Memorial Day approaches, it’s important to pause and remember those who have defended our nation. It’s a time of reflection and gratitude. For me, one memorable moment was when Chris and I stumbled upon a beautifully solemn scene during a Memorial Day weekend, possibly in Monroe, WA. The precision of the ceremony—it was deeply moving and a tribute to the dedication so many put into honoring our fallen.

This year, I hope to watch military band concerts on TV, taking in the music and tradition from home. Someday, Chris and I may visit the cemeteries in Spokane to place flowers on the graves of our ancestors—a quiet gesture of remembrance.

I’m reminded of these words from Scripture:

1 Thessalonians 4:16–18
For the Lord himself will descend from heaven with a cry of command, with the voice of an archangel, and with the sound of the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air, and so we will always be with the Lord. Therefore encourage one another with these words.

May we carry that encouragement with us as we honor and remember.

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MOTHER'S DAY-- HONORING MOMS

 

1944--  Jay, Grandma Isabelle, Grace, me, Aunt Emily, Kit, Aunt Jeanne, Richard

It was a joyful day when the cousins finally met. We were all close in age—except for Jay, who was two years older than the rest of us. Richard was born in January, I came along in July, and Kit, the youngest, was born in August.

Our families traveled from California and Wisconsin to Spokane for that first reunion. It marked the beginning of a lasting bond between us, one nurtured by our remarkable mothers—Grace, Emily, and Jeanne. From that point on, they made sure we stayed connected. I was happy to have 2 girl cousins, Rinda and Janet, and my sister Evy born between 1945 and 1947.  Last of all we had cousin Bobby, and my brothers Davy and Wayne born in the 50's. 

Thanks to their dedication, we saw each other at least once a year. In between visits, letters and gifts kept our relationships strong. Their consistent efforts helped build a deep and lasting connection among us. 

I believe what truly sustained our closeness was more than just our mothers' efforts—it was also the shared foundation of values we grew up with. Our Judeo-Christian upbringing gave us a common moral ground that shaped our lives and deepened our connection.

Looking back, I’m grateful for the love and intention that brought us together and kept us close. What began as a simple family visit became the foundation of lifelong relationships. The traditions, values, and memories we share continue to shape who we are today. And though time and distance may stretch between us now, the bond we built—rooted in family, faith, and the care of three devoted mothers—remains.

Here's to all moms on this special day.

Proverbs 31:26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue.

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