Memorial Day
On this day, we raise a cup
To those we have lost in battles, wars declared and undeclared
Soldiers and civilians
To those we have lost in riots and shootings, protests and strikes
Activists, workers, citizens, officers
To those who tended the wounded and dying
Nurses, medics, clergy,
To those we have lost who sought to record the truth of the battlefield
Journalists and reporters
To those we lost who protected students and scholars, forbidden knowledge and literature from those who would destroy it
Teachers, Librarians, Scientists
To those who guard the wilderness and its creatures, and those who venture into the wild.
Rangers, Wardens, Firefighters
We honor you. We remember you.
We promise you that we carry on your tasks and your burdens, in any way we can.
For freedom and protection,
For truth and knowledge
For wisdom and nature.
For peace and for justice.
So be it. Blessed Be. Amen. Shalom.