It is not the warrior or soldier that I despise, but the sad fact that war is necessary in the first place. Even worse is the regrettable tendency we have as a nation to glorify the act.

Memorial Day, however, is a different story. It’s evolved since its inception in 1865, as Decoration Day, as a day to honor each and every American who died while serving our country, in all wars. Originally, the holiday was held in remembrance of the Union Soldiers who fought and died in the Civil War – by the freed slaves in Charleston, South Carolina, known as Freedmen – but most people aren’t aware of that little historical tidbit.

Unfortunately – as with most American holidays – the true meaning of Memorial Day tends to get lost in the mix most of the time.

Whether it’s celebrating Christmas two months early, associating Thanksgiving with turkey, football and stuffing rather than a celebration of peace and a good harvest, buying bags upon bags of candy for the kids on Halloween or celebrating the Fourth of July with fireworks and barbecues while taking no time to reflect on our country’s independence, we’ve allowed commercialism, laziness and ignorance to pollute our national and religious holidays.

Memorial Day is no different really, when you think about it. Often, its true meaning is disregarded, ignored or – far too often – forgotten altogether. I mean, how many parents these days take the time to teach their children what the parades and flag-raising ceremonies taking place across the country on May 30 truly represent? I’m sure some do but, at the same time, I’m sure there are many who don’t.

But Memorial Day should be more than just a start to the summer vacation season, flea markets and antique auto shows. As a nation, it’s important for us to remember that. And while I’ve never had the opportunity to visit the Vietnam Memorial or the Arlington National Cemetery, let’s just say that, when I do, I know it will be an experience I’ll never forget.