Grilled hamburgers and hot dogs (or Hebrew National Beef Knockwurst - for the discriminating BBQ-er); balmy temperatures and clear blue skies with wisps of clouds (weather permitting); or chasing new toddlers around the beach, backyard or breakfast nook (whichever applies to your life cycle moment and environment). These are among the classic ways that many Americans spend part of their Memorial Day weekend. We acknowledge the passing of heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice, but for far too many of us it is an obscure (though sincere) recollection.
The understandable initial reactions to a cancer determination span the spectrum of postulated outcomes from full recovery to fateful loss. We all know many who have survived, and far too many who have left us after a valiant battle. These soldiers of sickness are brave and fight hard in their effort to defend "precious soil” - their life. Just as those that we honor each Memorial Day also took up "arms" and used all means of response to stave off an enemy. But in spite of these poetic similarities, as I reflect on the possible comparisons between the two groups of warriors, one key difference strikes me.
Receiving a cancer diagnosis is an overwhelming moment that few if any patients ever forget. In keeping with the previous analogies, the patient (and their family) almost feels "enlisted" into a battle of unknown weapons or results. But for the purposes of this conversation, the word I would like to focus on is enlisted.
Clearly, no one chooses to have cancer. They must then forge on, mustering their support-troops and their courage, to take on the enemy. By contrast, the United States soldiers who are/have engaged in all-too-common geopolitical wars (as of 1973) are an all-volunteer force; choosing willingly to take on this role, this responsibility, and this risk.
Bravery comes in many forms (vocations) in our lives. As we fulfill the rightful responsibility of honoring our fallen soldiers, particularly on this annual holiday, let us not forget that behind their courage was the conscious choice to take on this duty, and stand for our freedom. IMHO that is a level of sacrifice that warrants appreciation and gratitude - which should exist beyond one day of the year.
