Can you believe the first holiday of summer has arrived? Where did winter and spring go? Oh that’s right….. the entire world missed them! People are becoming desperate for renewal and uplifting. Thank goodness some governors and countries recognize the need for people to live their lives. When you do head out, have you found turning your face toward the warmth and nurturing of the sun can flood your mind, and body with a refreshing glow? As many are bemoaning the loss of graduations and proms for 2020, we reminisce about our own teenage years.  At that time we also reached for the sun to heal and give hope: “Good Day Sunshine” (Beatles, 1966) “Good Morning Sunshine” (Beatles ’67), From antiwar musical Hair!, “Let the Sunshine”, and “Here comes the Sun” (Beatles,’69). Just a few I can recall when our country faced another difficult time.

Some people want to compare this quarantine to war- it is not-just ask my husband. He is dismayed by the abject fear. “Joanne, you can go out, No one is shooting at you!”. Veterans have a unique perspective. He is right, as we venture forth and with the longer days and increasing sunshine, we can be safe, calm, and confident. There is space, air, and openness that reduces contagion. So I say, “Let the sunshine in”. Breathe fresh clean air every day. The new graduates can celebrate, maybe not in a hall together but the hard-fought freedom, life with expectations, lack of oppression and tyranny, free speech and freedom to become whatever their hearts desire. How amazing is that?

This Memorial Day let us all recharge with a purpose to live a life worthy of the sacrifices so many made. First and foremost, let’s start Summer with honoring our beloved veterans and pray for those families who have lost loved ones in all wars. Then to enjoy refreshing ourselves with a renewed spirit. Men and women didn’t die for our country so we could be imprisoned with fear. We are figuring out the rescue of covid emergencies. We did our part to give time to put plans in place. Patients and the elderly know who is at the greatest risk. They may take precautions or stay close to home on a sun-drenched porch. We can do this now. We are the land of the free and home of the brave. No virus or threat can change that. This Memorial Day, may God Bless a renewed, refreshed, and recharged America!