I don’t know too many people who would say enjoy the funeral, but that’s as logical as saying Happy Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a day to honor those who died in service of the country; it’s a solemn occasion.

Believe me, I’m as happy as the next person about having the extra day off. Spending a Monday at home or with family or with NPR Wisconsin is a much-needed change of pace, and we have every right to enjoy the extra day without guilt or sadness. It probably wouldn’t be too much of a burden, though, to remember that the day is intended to be one that honors deceased members of the military. At least we can try to remember that when greeting each other rather than mindlessly lumping the day with the likes of Happy Valentine’s Day, Happy Fourth of July, and Happy President’s Day.

There is, as an aside, a significant difference between the statements died serving the country and died fighting for our freedom, but that’s for another day.

–Paul