I have always loved the fact that Memorial Day marks the first un-official day of Summer. The dichotomy between the warm outdoor celebrations after a long Buffalo winter and the sadness and solemnity of remembering those men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nations freedom highlights the balance of life.

I’d like to think that those servicemen are pleased that they are remembered in such a way, with warmth and joy and laughter. Surely that’s how we’d all like to be remembered after the time of mourning has passed.

And so tomorrow, when I’m sitting in the sun eating the most perfectly grilled hot dog I’ll pause a moment and send a prayer heavenward thanking those souls who have given their lives so that we all would have the privilege of enjoying that first perfect summer day.