Memorial Day is a solemn remembrance and a vital celebration of those who gave the last full measure, but it’s also vital to refocus on the reasons why this nation of ours places such value on the “we” of ‘We the People’. There is grace in service, military and otherwise. We give of ourselves because in our unity is, truly, our strength. For me, in addition to honoring our fallen, I find reverence for their sacrifice in visiting our public lands.
The idea of America is so much more than an economic model, or a system of government. It includes our collective conscience, and our commitment to protect and preserve the excellence and vast opportunity in our national treasures.
These wild places are as dear as our founding parchments and our marble temples. The wildness of America, inherent in our spirit, like Lady Liberty’s promise, guide us forward.
