Just Musing: Celebrations, summer sports and honoring veterans

It is Memorial Day weekend. Many families will gather for the first big gathering of summer while others attend services at local cemeteries, high school graduation ceremonies and open house celebrations and family cookouts among others.

For those cooking out, I can smell the aroma of hamburgers, hot dogs, bratwurst, steaks, kabobs, ribs or whatever is the main entrée of choice. Side dishes may include potato, macaroni, broccoli, or ramen noodle slaw salad, baked beans, baked corn, deviled eggs, veggie trays and dips and an assortment of desserts.

While you are enjoying the feast, did you by chance think of a lonely senior citizen in the neighborhood to share a plate with? Years ago, we had a couple of elderly neighbors we shared with frequently. And the amazing thing is we never missed that spoonful we put on their plate, but we got to experience the joy on their faces when we delivered it.

I often do the same yet today. I made broccoli cheese soup and brownies last week and took some to an elderly lady about five houses down the street from me. She couldn’t thank me enough for thinking of her. It’s the simple things in life that will totally make someone’s day special.

A short sermon on summer sports etiquette

Youth summer sports are in full swing now, also. Young children are participating in soccer and t-ball for the first time. Most leagues require that all children have playing time and in my opinion that is the best rule ever. Playing sports has so many good attributes − learning teamwork, discipline from someone other than mom and/or dad, respect, positive attitude and sharpens listening skills. Now, if we could just get some parents to learn the same.

Every parent wants their child to be the shining star, but yelling at them to do this or that when the coach has told them otherwise confuses the child and in reality the whole team. This is one of my biggest pet peeves, especially for the 4-to-6-year-olds who are just learning. I won’t say I didn’t yell at my kids when they were playing when they made a mistake, but I really did try to keep it under control and let the coach handle it.

Many municipal and other open to the public pools as well as pools on private property also will open this weekend. Have you talked to your children about water safety? Do they have proper fitting life vests or arm floaties? Have you signed them up for swim lessons? There is nothing more heartbreaking to hear of a child wandering into a pool unsupervised and often found on the bottom of the pool. It is better to be proactive than reactive.

Enough of the sermon. Enjoy your holiday weekend however you observe it and be safe.

A pass by the new cars and Honor Flight at Home

Recently, I had my SUV in for routine service and out of curiosity walked over to the new car area to see what new features are available with the new models. Of course, I was approached by a salesman to help me find my perfect vehicle. After they gave their spiel, I politely told them I made a promise to myself when I bought my current vehicle it would be my last new one. He laughed and said they hear that same story often. So far, I’ve held off but who doesn’t love the smell of a new car?

Have you signed up your favorite Korean or Vietnam veteran for the Honor Flight at Home Marion program June 8 at Tri-Rivers Career Center? This is specifically for for those veterans who have not been on an Honor Flight and are unable to travel to Washington, D.C., to see their memorials. If not, contact Margie Saul, coordinator of the event, at saullgw4@yahoo.com to register.

My late husband, who served in Korea and two tours in Vietnam was able to go on the trip in his wheelchair three months before he passed away and was overwhelmed by emotion from seeing the Vietnam memorial for the first time. What a wonderful opportunity for those unable to travel to be honored. Thank you Fred and Margie Saull for all your hard work to make this possible for our veterans each year.

Let me leave you with this verse from the Bible known as the Golden Rule that promotes treating others with kindness, respect, compassion and empathy. “Do unto others as you would have them do to you.” Luke 6:31

Until next week, be safe and be kind.

Brenda Donegan is a former Marion Star staffer. She may be reached at brendadonegan55@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on Marion Star: May celebrations, summer sports and a salute to veterans