In this episode, we explore the forgotten meaning of Memorial Day and our collective responsibility to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice. What began as "Decoration Day" to honor Civil War dead has transformed into something far less meaningful for many Americans today.

• Memorial Day originally honored those who died in the Civil War—America's deadliest conflict
• Human societies throughout history have created monuments to honor their fallen warriors
• We possess a remarkable capacity to forget even the most profound events
• The Oklahoma City bombing example shows how quickly even life-changing events fade from memory
• War veterans often find more in common with former enemies than with civilians
• Memorial Day evolved to honor fallen soldiers from both Union and Confederate sides
• As Catholics, we believe the dead remain part of our fellowship in Christ
• The faithful practice of remembrance connects us to those who sacrificed for our freedom

This Memorial Day, let us pause to remember those who gave their lives and find a place for them in our hearts and prayers.

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Father Don Wolf is a priest of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Living Catholic also broadcasts on Oklahoma Catholic Radio several times per week, with new episodes airing every Sunday.