Ill. A. Gene Cobb, Jr., 33°
Sovereign Grand Inspector
General of North Carolina
There are so many things we have to be grateful for in this great nation of ours.
There are so many people who have crossed our paths in ways that made us stronger, better, wiser.
Over the course of the next few weeks, it is my prayer that all citizens of the United States of America will pause, reflect, and remember that the freedoms we enjoy in this country were not secured by our present or future leadership. Their responsibility is to make sure that those we remember on Memorial Day did not die in vain.
The brave men and women who gave their lives so we could have our cookouts, swimming pools, vacations, family gatherings, sporting events and all the other benefits we enjoy deserve our respect and honored attention.
So, this year, please take some time to thank God for those who gave their lives in the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard. Remember those who died in the line of duty enforcing our laws, responding to our emergencies, and even teaching our children.
There was a character on Saturday Night Live called "Debbie Downer." Her constant mantra was to say something negative in the presence of so much good. Remembering the dead need not be depressing but can be inspiring. Let it be! We have so much good going on now in our fraternity. Ask and you will receive it. Seek it and you will find it. You've already knocked on the door and found it opened! Those who have given their lives for our freedoms deserve our respect and remembrance not only during this holiday, but all year long.
So, for those who gave their lives for their country, for those who made sure I was free to say these things, for those who made sure you had the opportunity to celebrate the freedoms we enjoy; may their eternal rest from their sacrificial service continue to light our paths toward life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness that God intended for every human being.
Happy Memorial Day!
Gene Cobb, 33° Sovereign Grand Inspector General of North Carolina