The Meaning of Memorial Day

CNN.com asks an interesting question of its visitors in today's "Quick Vote:"

"Has the true meaning of Memorial Day been forgotten?"

I'm not sure how long the question has been posted on the site. But, at nearly 12:30 p.m. (Central), about 65,000 people have voted — and nearly 70% say yes, the true meaning of Memorial Day has been forgotten.

I'm inclined to agree. The emphasis I see is on sales and the kickoffs of summer activities — the opening of community swimming pools, promotions of tourist attractions, etc. — and not so much attention given to the people who gave their lives in service to their country.

To be sure, there are some who remember the reason behind this holiday.

The Detroit Free Press reminds us of the words of Abraham Lincoln at the dedication of the cemetery in Gettysburg. The newspaper acknowledges that "we have not as a nation always measured up to our expressed ideals," but it still encourages all Americans to defend freedom "whenever and however we can."

It is, therefore, a timely reminder of what we have and could easily lose — and what millions in this world do not have — that we heard today of North Korea's second nuclear bomb test, which, as CNN.com observes, was conducted "in defiance of multiple international warnings."

President Obama was right in saying that North Korea's actions "pose a grave threat to the peace and stability of the world." He pledged a strong response by the United States and the international community.

Today, you can pay tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice by pausing at 3 p.m., wherever you are and whatever you're doing, to reflect. Major league baseball games will be interrupted at 3 p.m. local time for everyone in attendance to participate, but you can participate also, even if you're spending the day at home.

That is what is being promoted by the White House Commission on Remembrance.

Have a good holiday. But, please, don't lose sight of the reason for the season.