In 1971, by the act of a bill, it was declared that Memorial Day would be celebrated on the last Monday of May, giving us our long weekend.

What do people do? It is a tradition to fly a flag of the United States at half mast from dawn until noon. Many people visit cemeteries and memorials, particularly to honor those who died in military service. Memorial Day is traditionally seen as the start of the summer season whereby many people  choose to hold picnics, sports events and family gatherings on this special weekend.

This year as I thought about Memorial Day, my health condition has started to worsen, and as a result, I started seeing “shadows,” because of a medical condition called “genitive eye disease” or going blind. Before losing my sight completely, I decided to enhance the exterior grounds where I live (York Manor Apartments).

With the help of a neighbor friend of mine, I selected and made special images to complement the flower gardens, as a tribute to those who sacrificed their lives for our country. The complete project will be finished on Saturday, May 27, and can be viewed for Memorial Day.

Shadows depict a young boy fishing his favorite fishing hole. Another is a Dutch maiden watering her Holland garden with an array of tulips. Around the flagpole is a soldier saluting the flag. At the Memory Garden which was started by the Homebound Chapel back in 2004, are two Yew trees, bushes and flowers that were donated in memory of the veterans and the MIAs (missing in action).

There is a combat soldier in a silent moment at the graves of those young brothers and sisters who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.

While riding around this meaningful weekend, I sure hope you take a moment to drive by and reflect on the freedoms we have and enjoy, not to mention the start of a wonderful summer.

Martha Olsen

Biddeford