My days are spent with men and women who have all given a piece of themselves in service to this country. For some, that service took more than others. And on a day like Memorial Day, we reflect on those whose sacrifice cost them their very lives.

We live in a time where even displaying a flag, an expression of patriotism, can be seen by some as too much, and by others as not enough.

But to begin this reflection, I want to ask something simple: for just a moment, set aside political agendas, questions and judgments. Instead, recognize the human reality behind this day.

There are sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, husbands and wives, mothers and fathers who will wake up remembering that someone they love is no longer here. There is a wound in the heart and mind that does not easily heal.

As a nation, we call this a day of remembrance Memorial Day.

For those who have lost someone, it is called every day.

During a recent staff meeting at the Columbia Basin Veterans Center, I asked our team, many of whom have served across different wars, nations and eras, what Memorial Day meant to them. It’s important to understand that most in that room have either lost someone they served with or carry a cost that is difficult to put into words.

The responses were simple, but powerful: remembering, valuing, honoring.

One veteran shared a story in vivid detail, the exact date, time and circumstances of when a plane went down. Another spoke of heroes from World War II who believed that their sacrifice, even death if needed, was worth the outcome.

One veteran staff member wrote this: “Memorial Day is a time of reflection and remembrance for the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice. For me, it is also deeply personal; a time to look back on the those who once stood shoulder to shoulder ready to face their mission. I think of their laughter, the friendships formed, and the moments we shared before stepping into a war that would change so many lives forever. Their memory lives not only in what they gave, but in who they were before everything changed.”

For many, Memorial Day is just a day off from work. But it is meant to honor those who gave everything. It deserves deeper reflection from all of us. Take a moment and say thank you, place some time on your agenda to honor and maybe read a story of one of our local heroes to help you understand.

Below are a few events and ceremonies taking place in our community. I encourage you to set aside time to attend one. Be present. Listen. Remember.

And if you are a veteran, I know this day can be difficult. But if you’re able, take time to share your story with your children and grandchildren. Help them understand why Memorial Day matters, why it carries weight, meaning and memory.

Remembrance endures only when we actively share and honor it.

Memorial Day activities

• 11 a.m.-2 p.m. May 24: Memorial Day Community Celebration, Sunset Gardens, 915 Bypass Highway, Richland. Free hot dogs.
• 7:30 a.m. May 25, Remembrance Run 5K/1-mile family walk in Columbia Park. Cost: $30 adults, $10 for those 12 and under. Go to: columbiabasinvetcenter.org.
• 8 a.m. May 25, Regional Veterans Memorial in Columbia Park, 2502 Paul Parish Drive, Kennewick.
• 11 a.m. May 25, City View Cemetery, 1300 N. Oregon Ave., Pasco.
• 11 a.m. May 25, Desert Lawn Memorial Park, 1401 S. Union St., Kennewick.
• 11 a.m.-1 p.m. May 25: Columbia Rivers Garden Cemetery, 224 S. 24th Ave., Pasco. Program begins at 11 a.m. Free hot dogs and drinks, memorial reflection and balloon release.
• Noon-2 p.m. May 25: Memorial Day Community Celebration, Sunset Gardens, 915 Bypass Highway, Richland. Free hot dogs and snow cones, live music, balloon release and guest speakers. Program starts at 11 a.m. Marine Maj. Gen. William (Wes) Sauza is the speaker. Ground transportation provided.

Kristopher Dahir is the executive director of the Columbia Basin Veterans Center, 1020 S. Seventh Ave., Pasco. Go to: columbiabasinvetcenter.org.