Three Days of Rain

Three days of rain
seems more appropriate
to observe Memorial Day
than days of bright sunshine,
barbecues, picnics,
and giant sales for
mattresses and appliances.
It's not meant to be 
a celebration after all,
but a day of remembrance
for those who died
in the service of their country.

Heaven knows 
we need the reminder,
and so heaven weeps
copious tears.
Tears for the brave,
taken too soon,
and taken too often.
Taken for righteous causes,
and sometimes 
purely for wicked men
who want to rule the world.

Heaven is filled with tears
of mothers and fathers,
sons and daughters,
brothers and sisters,
husbands and wives,
all left behind with a folded flag
and the memories 
of loved ones taken too soon.
Tears shed in grief
but also with pride
for someone who 
stayed true to the end,
giving their all
for the greater good.

They would not begrudge you
your barbecues and laughter.
They served to protect
your freedom to celebrate
in whatever way you choose.

Heaven knows the least we can do 
is take a moment to honor them.
Three days of rain
is a small price
for those who made 
the greatest sacrifice.

If you are lucky enough to be someplace where there is bright sunshine instead of three days of rain, if you’re somewhere celebrating the coming of summer, or a graduation, or whatever, take a moment to remember those who gave their lives to keep that place free for you and yours.

~Elise Skidmore ©2026