As Americans, there are so many things that we tend to take for granted. I can't even being to understand what our service men and women and their families truly sacrifice so that we might be free. Memorial Day weekend is here, and while we're enjoying pools opening up, cookouts (or BBQ's) with friends and family, and perhaps even a day off from work, more often than not, we're really missing the purpose of Memorial Day: a day on which those who died in active military service are remembered, traditionally observed on May 30 but now officially observed on the last Monday in May.

What can we do to show kindness to those in the military?

Fly a flag (American flag, that is): How other how proud you are to be an American. Showing your patriotism is a great way to let those serving our country know that you support their efforts.

Visit with a veteran: if you have a vet in the family, or you know a veteran nearby, stop in and have a visit with them. Bring them a cup of coffee and some homemade baked goods.

Walk through a veterans cemetery, and beautify some of the graves that look like no one has visited in quite some time.

If you're a business owner, give discounts over the holiday weekend to veterans and active military.

Attend a local parade and show your support for our military and their families.

Share a photo of a family or friend in the military (past or present) that you'd like to say thanks to.

Send a care package to someone in the military.

Here's hoping you'll take one of these ideas into consideration & show your appreciation to those who fight to secure our freedom.