From the field of Gettysburg to the Meuse-Argonne Offensive-Pearl Harbor to Normandy Beach-The Battle of Heartbreak Ridge to the Fall of Saigon. Are we quiet on OUR western front? Will we continue fighting in needless trench warfares?
Mixed races, religions, and speeches of oneness ~we should be unified. All is not quiet on the western front. Our humanity easily slips into the smoke of the bbq grill. Rather than remember, we rejoice in the gift of time. The gift a multitude have lost. Our enemies (were) are young humans with hearts and souls. Both sides killing one another; trembling hands and heavy hearts. A bloody coat holds the picture of a wife or husband, son or daughter, a beloved pet, and a letter from a Mother.
All quiet on the Western Front? Who will decorate the graves when a generation is gone?
Do we know sacrifice? As I sit in my comfortable home, with the freedom to go, do, and be, I can’t help but remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for me. God, break my heart for what breaks yours. Greed. Power. Control.
All quiet on the Western Front? Shallow graves to shallow thinking, bloody hands to broken spirits, battles of belonging to winning wars in our hearts and minds. Defending our opinions rather than extending a hand of fellowship. Do we SEE one another as…humans? Will we honor? Or will we just forget? I’ll visit the graves of those I love, and pay respect for those I’ve never met.
I’ll never forget.
“Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure.” Abraham Lincoln (Gettysburg Address)
“Both parties deprecated war; but one of them would make war rather than let the nation survive; and the other would accept war rather than let it perish. And the war came…Fondly do we hope—fervently do we pray—that this might scourge of war of may speedily pass away.” (Abraham Lincoln-Second Inaugural Address)
“I am tired and sick of war. Its glory is all moonshine. It is only those who have neither fired a shot nor heard the shrieks and groans of the wounded who cry aloud for blood, for vengeance, for desolation. War is hell.”
William Tecumseh Sherman
“It is well that war is terrible, otherwise we should grow too fond of it.”
Robert E. Lee
“Wars are poor chisels for carving out peaceful tomorrows.”
Martin Luther King, Jr.
“All wars are civil wars, because all men are brother.”
Francois Fenelon
“The most successful war seldom pays for its losses.”
Thomas Jefferson
“There will be one day spring from the brain of science a machine or force so fearful in it’s potentialities, so absolutely terrifying, that even man, the fighter, who will dare torture and death in order to inflict torture and death, will be appalled, and so abandon war forever.”
Thomas A. Edison
“You cannot simultaneously prevent and prepare for war.”
Albert Einstein
“There was never a good war, or bad peace.”
Benjamin Franklin
“I have never advocated war except as a means of peace.”
Ulysses S. Grant
“Don’t forget what I discovered that over ninety percent of all national deficits from 1921 to 1939 were caused by payments for past, present, and future wars.”
Franklin D. Roosevelt
“In modern war…you will die like a dog for no good reason.”
Ernest Hemingway
“In war, you win or lose, live or die-and the difference is just an eyelash.”
Douglas MacArthur
“What is human warfare but just this: an effort to make the laws of God and nature take sides with one party.”
Henry David Thoreau
“Pray continually.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17
Do you know the ultimate sacrifice made for YOU? You are loved.
Have faith 💚
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Lovely tribute to our men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free.
We sure don’t learn from our past because wars continue to rage on.
Karla, you’ve read this before from me, but I think it bears repeating, especially today….
Let’s join together and learn to LIVE in peace and not just REST in peace.
Wishing you and Sweet Miss Finley a pleasant and peaceful day.
Ginger🦋
Sent from my iPhone
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How beautiful, Ginger. “Let’s join together and learn to LIVE in peace and not just REST in peace.” I always appreciate your wisdom and words. Much love to you and yours from Ms. Finley and me. Thank you for being you! ❣️🤍💕🙏🐾
May we honor those who gave their life for our freedom. May we honor those who are brave enough to risk their life for others. As long as there is evil in this world, we must stand up for truth and defend the innocent. May God give us the courage to do it. Blessings, Karla!
Amen, Cindy! “Stand up for truth and defend the innocent.” When I think of warriors like you, I see “God’s Army” just as he intended. I feel equipped to battle without lifting any weapon but love and truth. Yes, God, give us courage!
Cindy, did you hear about the young missionary Missouri couple killed in Haiti? My heart goes out to their families. Those two lifted their hearts, Bibles, and gave time, love, and care.
I heard about it, but I didn’t know they were from Missouri. Yes, we must pray for their families. They are with Jesus, no better place to be! Blessings, Karla! 🙏 🤗 🐾
Thank you, Cindy! Many blessings to you and Henry too! 🤍🐾❣️🙏🙏
Beautiful and heartfelt words. No one ever can claim victory when men, women and even children perish from the ravages of it. The only war we should take part in is to fight against the evil that continues to exist in this world. Jesus conquered death, but as long as we live on this planet, the fight goes on. Those who trust in God will never lose.
Thank you, Mama K. I appreciate you so much! Your words are filled with wisdom and truth! I’m wearing my daily armor and trying to do things simple–love God, love others…he’s won! It seems a daily battle sometimes, Mama. I’m “no worse for the wear”, the struggles, the battles,…’m getting stronger (but I do look more tired, yet filled with joy because I have no fear). I’m so glad we’re on the winning side together! Praise God!
OK. WordPress is acting up again and not allowing me to post my comment on your site. So here is what I said:
Thank you for this powerful, poignant post today, Karla. It is an eloquent reminder of why we pause today and give thanks for the sacrifice of others. I was going to try and write my own Memorial Day post, but there is no way I could improve on what you have offered here. So I will reblog this eloquent work, if I may. Blessings to you and yours today.
Russell, you are so kind and thoughtful! Wow. Thank you. I’m honored that you would share this. It doesn’t surprise me that we would share similar thoughts. Happy Memorial Day to you and your family. I appreciate your support and prayers. I’m sorry about the difficulties with WP. I wish I could “fix” that. I’m having that same issue on another blogger’s site. I need to further investigate this! God bless you and thank you, again, Russell.
Amen 🙏♥️👍🏼🇺🇸
Beautiful Tribute, Beautiful Post and Beautiful Words.
On this Memorial Day, let’s reflect on the sacrifice of those who gave their lives for our freedom, including the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ who ensured our lives and freedom, freeing us from condemnation for our sins.
Perfect words for today Karla. Love your caring heart and thank you to your dear sons for their service! <3
The quotes from great men you shared are moving Karla. War is hell. I think of all those young lives lost instead of lived and feel so sad. As a mother I think of my sons who in other times would have been soldiers, I’m so glad that we are, at least here in Australia, not at war.
Thank you, Kate. I appreciate you so much. Yes, war is hell, indeed. We can relate to one another so much. My sons serve; but not in combat. I’m so happy your country is not at war, dear friend. Many hugs and love.
I feel the same. “Happy Memorial Day!” I think, “What’s WRONG with you?” At the same time, what’s the point? The best way to “honor the dead” is to stop killing each other but we can’t do that.
Thank you, MAK. I thought this would resonate with you. Your last sentence. Wow. I love and appreciate you!
Such a powerful and convicting collection of quotes, Karla! Sherman’s words particularly resonate with me. Blessings–and peace–dear friend.
Thank you, dear friend! That particular quote hit me hard, too, Mitch! I appreciate you so much, my friend.
An honoring and inspiring tribute you’ve created, Karla. Your heart shines through in all that you do. 💖
Thank you, sweet Michele. I appreciate your kindness and loving spirit! 💕
🙏🏻💕🤗
Yes, a somber day here. Fresh memories. May they not fade.
Hello, Gary. Thank you, dear friend. I know you won’t let them fade. Praying always.
A very beautiful and profound post Karla. They are the big horrors of this world those wars, taking away from us in so many ways. But on that day that Spirit said to me that there is opposites in everything…so that we can see and appreciate what we have…I had to look at it again. And yes, it does give a true appreciation of what we have been given, in that sacrifice by others, so that we will try any other path but that one. But a new generation, or the one after, comes through, no longer fully appreciating what went before…and it starts again. So that they can appreciate it all over again.
But it appears that this current world decided to show us something much more profound, that even a ‘little’ countries skirmish can also be something so terrifying that even an argument in the same ditch has repercussions beyond words. And a stirring that affects us all.
I’m right into AI, it’s only the one’s that control it that I’m afraid of…but…just this once I think those ‘little’ copters in the sky should have one order, and one order for all. If you pick up a rifle, fire a rocket or push somebody into doing either…it will wound you…do it again and it will remove something…and the third time. Well, then they can argue with God.
Sorry, you just gave me something so beautiful and I reply with that. I think, like us all, I want some hugging and loving and peace offerings of flowers and chocolate. Bring a smile instead, a picnic by the sea. In fact, all arguments around the world should be resolved over a bbq, and if it can’t be resolved there it must be through a best of three flower arrangement. All wars is just who’s got the biggest stick…doesn’t make it right though. Actually, better still, lets just vote on it. All of us, right around the world. Make them stay at the table and sort it all out, no ‘sticks’ allowed.
Sorry, again…I’m trying to figure out if it’s me or Spirit 😵 🤔
Ahem…big hugs for your lovely words, and lots of love, chocolate and flowers being waved lots from over here kind lady. May it just never happen again…but…a big thank you for those who gave it all so that we can find that loving freedom within us all. Amen! ❤️ 🙏
Mark, as always, your response is so thoughtful, articulate, and moving.
“Opposites everywhere.” Yes, my friend.
I hear you. I understand. Every. Word. Wounds. Removal. Talk to God about it.
Like you, I’d love to bring everyone to a picnic. The biggest stick? Steak? Flower arrangement? Sadly, not to rain on our picnic, but someone would complain. LOL. A war over watermelon? A skirmish over the skewers? A battle about the buns? A good ol’ food fight might just cool the heat?
Never apologize. It’s my goal that my “place” be one where my friends can pull up a seat to the table and tell me how you feel. I understand; I truly do.
Thank YOU for being here–for your support, friendship, and prayers. We both know who wins at the end–and LOVE always wins too, Mark. To die loving is a good way to go in my book. And I’ll never forget those who died fighting. The fight has come to our country, dear friend. Sadly, it’s us vs ourselves sometimes. And the arguing over who we support outside of our territory, and worse, who we even support within 20 miles of where we reside. Unity? Maybe in small groups. Or when something tragic happens. For me I’ll rally around my family and friends–and keep making friends where I go lest they know they don’t have MORE enemies. But love could spread.
Something I didn’t touch on in my post is how war impacts the survivors–those remaining. The ones who had to LIVE through it and the PTSD paralyzes. As do those who are back without limbs–all missing pieces of their souls, too. Do we SEE THEM? Can we LOVE THEM?
Sending you big hugs and love, my friend. I see you waving the love, chocolate, and flowers! Finn and I happily accept. Also, very easy to see–the huge WHITE flag of friendship that you wave to all of us. 🤍💜🤗🎶🦅💘🙏🙏
Well said dear lady. I think I was just having a wobble. I usually go beyond it to what I have found deep inside us all…but I must have had too much chocolate and got distracted 🤣
Regardless, I hear the cheer from your heart kind lady, and the love you have found on your journey. The important bit. Big hugs to you and Finn, keep the chin up and much love coming from over here too 😀❤️🙏
🤗❣️💚💜
Wonderful post, Karla! Never forget.
Karla, thank you for your wonderful perspective! Just got back from my litt
Thank you, Judy! I love you all so much! Will you please give Chuck and your brother my regards and gratitude? I’m so proud of them and the quilts of honor they received. You all mean so much to me.
Beautiful tribute, my friend! We are on a vacay in the mountains. Love you!!
Thank you, sweet Pam! I just visited and commented on ALL your beautiful summer landscapes. WOW! I pinned them too. The mountains sound magical! Be safe and have fun! I love you!
What a beautiful tribute to remembering, to not taking for granted, to humanizing. Well done, my friend. It made me tear up.
M.B…..your words touch my heart. I KNOW how YOU appreciate history. I thought of you when I was watching documentaries and movies (one of my sons loves them, too). I appreciate you and your friendship, love, and prayers. Many blessings, my friend.
Thank you for your service, Jarrod and Jay. MLK and Thessalonians are resonating with me today. Sending my love and a big hug, Dear Karla!
C, how are you? I saw the storms in your area-you’ve been on my mind and heart, sister.
I will tell my sons thank you. I know they appreciate it, my friend. Sending you my love and a big hug! ❣️🤗🙏 and prayers right now!
We are safe from the storms, Sister. I’m sad for friends who are unable to say the same. It was quite a strange straight-line storm that knocked out power for millions of people, not to mention the damage.
Prayers always appreciated. I happen to have an interview tomorrow (10 am) that seems like the perfect part-time thing. 🤞🏻🙏🏻🤞🏻
I pray and rejoice for you throughout my days, my friend! 🩵🩷💜
I’m sad to hear of the millions impacted–so much tragedy all around our globe. To “see” you is a relief.
10 am prayer tomorrow–in my phone now!
Thank YOU for rejoicing and praying for and with me, too! 💚🤍💜❣️
Such a lovely tribute to the memory of those brave souls that died protecting our freedom. It reminds me to focus on gratitude this weekend. Thank you Karla for sharing your heart and love for all. Always, holding you gently in my heart, hugs, C
C, it’s so good to see you, big sister. God places you in my heart often. I hope you are well. Your book gives me laughter, and deep thoughts to ponder.
THANK YOU for being here and taking the time to read and send such a beautiful message. I’m so grateful too, C. I love you and appreciate you. 🤍❣️🤗🙏
A beautiful tribute, Karla which brings tears of sorrow and appreciation for all the wars fought and beautiful beings lost and continue to be. I can never wrap my head or arms around all of it when history repeats itself leaving us torn so raw.
Beautiful and true which is why we fall into bbq grill.
💓
“Our humanity easily slips into the smoke of the bbq grill. Rather than remember, we rejoice in the gift of time. The gift a multitude have lost. Our enemies (were) are young humans with hearts and souls. Both sides killing one another; trembling hands and heavy hearts. A bloody coat holds the picture of a wife or husband, son or daughter, a beloved pet, and a letter from a Mother.”
These quotes and your prayer summarize well the feelings we all continue to have to grapple with.
Hugs as we face our own battles and our worlds and continue to pray and have humility and love.
Love you so much, Carla💓
Cindy, thank you for this heartfelt and thoughtful response. You just know.
Many hugs as we wage “war” on evil. For we know love wins–Christ is the answer, C. It’s the truth I’ve bet my life on. Because of that, I can live, and die, knowing that this love and truth will conquer all. It doesn’t mean there won’t be pain, war, and tough times, but oh, what a joy it can bring in the deepness of divisions, debacles, death, and every kind of despair!
I love you so much and appreciate you, C. ❣️🤍🙏🤗
You’re sooo very welcome my love.
I just don’t know what or who evil is anymore and who the face of the enemy is as it rears it’s ugly hear. LOVE and TRUTH do conquer all and I could die tomorrow as well, knowing that the battles fought never bring lives back but we know not what eternal life brings but we will. I have a short poem (imagine that.. lol ) coming out tomorrow on SW but it’s fun Fri-Yay and kind of heavy.. I’ll have to see if I share it tomorrow or not.. lol ‘ Love you so very much too and thanks for taking time to head over to Francisco’s place. Maybe a new follower for you both I hope.
Have a great day and I appreciate you so very much as well.. 💗🙏🏼💓💗🙏🏼
I look forward to reading it, dear C. You inspire me so much! I love you!! ❣️❣️❣️🙏🙏 I’m so happy Love wins for us!
Awww you inspire me too.. I still want your book! send me a link xo 💓💓
Oh yes!LOL! I want yours too! Can you send me your email? Thank you for your sweet words!! 💜🤍❣️💚💕🙏🙏
Thank you for a beautifully written and thoughtful post honoring our fallen soldiers. Touching our hearts and reminding us about all of the people who are touched by war and their sacrifices.
Thank you, sweet Rachel. I appreciate your support, kindness, and encouragement. I’m so happy it touched your heart, too. Blessings to you and your sweet family!
Blessings to you, too! 💕💕
Thank you!! 💜❣️🤍💚🙏
A great collection of quotes and not just the usual stuff. AND pictures. Well done.
Thank you, Marilyn! I appreciate you!!
Honest reflections! The historian in me encouraged me to read this overlooked post. Surrounded by these reverent tones, I feel the words of Lincoln offering light to pursue the American future. Thank you Karla. We owe every member of our armed forces a thank you, each and every day.
Ah, Richard! I appreciate you SO MUCH! I was hoping my fellow historians would understand. Your kind words mean so much to me. It’s my blessing to share these thoughts and hope that it lands in the way I intended. We do owe them so much! God bless you, my friend!