This Memorial Day weekend we remember with gratitude and profound respect those who took up arms, wore our nation’s uniform and paid the ultimate price. Let us also remember those who have been left behind to grieve the loss of their loved ones. May you live all of your days in the precious freedom that we enjoy.

The tune, Bunessan, is an old gaelic melody. The words come from English poet and children’s author Eleanor Farjeon, who wrote a poem to fit the lovely gaelic tune. This hymn first appeared in print in 1931. The hymn is an ode to spring.

It is also a reminder for those of us who need a second chance that each day is a new beginning.

The Kings Firecrackers are a performance jump rope team made up of talented 4th-8th graders from the Kings Local School District in Ohio. Coached by Lynn Kelley, they perform at venues across the country.

This halftime performance took place at a basketball game. The US Naval Academy played host to Army. These two are fierce rivals. What could bring both sides to a standing ovation? Perhaps only this team of girls jumping rope?

These elementary and junior high girls from Ohio have taken jumping rope to the extreme. Their skills have made them a sensation at sporting events.

The Firecrackers practice for two hours a day, five days a week. That’s on top of keeping their grades up. And each girl must pass an etiquette class to make the team. What do you suppose they eat for breakfast?

Learn more about this sport here.

As we continue to age, many of us are spending more time thinking about the hereafter. You know what I mean. We walk into a room and then ask ourselves, “What am I here after?”

I hope you enjoy the fun song by Tom Rush about this common affliction. Now if I can just find my “To Do” list, I”ll get on with the rest of my day.

Friday ended at sunset. The [Saturday] sabbath began at sunset. As the body of the teacher rested in the rich man’s tomb, his followers observed the day of rest. No doubt their heart’s were heavy and in their minds they wrestled with the question, “Why?” Many of us today wrestle with that same question.

Like the teacher’s followers of so many years ago, we frequently have to wait for understanding.

The Psalmist had written: “Weeping may remain for a night, but rejoicing comes in the morning.” Psalm 30:5b