Memorial Day hearkens to the Civil War era. A Union soldier headed an organization that established Decoration Day; flowers now mark and hallow the graves of the war dead. May 30 was selected as Memorial Day. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Holiday Act. Memorial Day is now celebrated on the last Monday in May.

The day features preening politicians who belabor citizens with overwrought speeches, citizens who barbecue briskets, ribs, chicken; there’s no mail delivery and it’s a day off from work, etc. However, let’s consider this day’s significance. I read a sampling of quotes from luminaries, presidents and a military general, but this Adlai Stevenson quote arrested me. “Patriotism is not short frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime.” Mark that.