As we head into Easter weekend, I want to share a special story I reminisce about every year.
When I was a young boy, my dad and I got stuck behind a bus belching black smoke out of its engine. He said it reminded him of April 1, 1945, the best Easter Sunday he ever had. My dad and his fellow U.S. Marines had just landed on Okinawa, Japan as it was heavily guarded—and the fighting was rough. This would turn out to be the last major battle of World War II when the U.S. pulled off an Allied victory.
All the blood, smoke, and strife made my father a better man. He took those lessons of war and service and lived his life to the fullest, inspiring others with his patriotism.
While my dad is no longer with us, I reflect on this story every Easter weekend as it’s a reminder to show gratitude for the men and women who sacrifice so we can live freely. If you can, take a moment to say a prayer for the service members spending this Easter Sunday away from their families to keep us safe.
I wish you all a happy and memorable Easter with the people you love.
