I have always had a hard time with the "Happy Memorial Day" phrase. Yes, of course, it's a nice intent. It's a kind greeting meant to wish someone a good day or to celebrate a long weekend. Memorial Day has even been deemed the official beginning of summer. Hot dogs, BBQs, beaches open, family, friends...but what is the true meaning of this holiday.

According to people.com, the holiday was once a fixed day, May 30th, and comes from a Southern custom known as "Decoration Day" when families gathered at graves of their ancestors and made a day of placing flowers, sharing food and being together.

I think U.S. Marine Tony Bundschuh put it best:

Memorial Day is supposed to be a somber day set aside for remembrance of those that have died serving their country. It is not a happy day.

Many find it inappropriate to wish someone a Happy Memorial Day. When you think about it, the very name of this holiday, "Memorial," in itself is a word attached to loss of life.

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