‘Our legacy is what remains on this earth’

Taunton is indeed “small town America.” But on Memorial Day, it suddenly comes to life and stands as a beacon to Americanism.

And, as Master of Ceremonies Royal Hettling said, “Liberty is what brings us here.” In his prayer, Deacon Bruce Bot reflected on the reason for celebrating Memorial Day.

“Future generations know who they were, what they did and when they did it.” But it was Guest Speaker Rob Hopper of the South Dakota National Guard from Hendricks who put a “life and death” spin on what sacrifice should mean for Americans.

“The unselfishness laid down by many with their lives should never be taken lackadaisically,” he said.

“No matter who you are, regardless of your job, life or religion we’re all 100 percent unworthy (of the sacrifice).”

But attending such services, “Gives their sacrifice purpose.”

At the risk of making his audience uncomfortable, Hopper explored the one great “known” in our lives — “We will all die.” He said, “No matter who you are, whatever faith you have in your God or your religion, we will all die.”

The fact is, Hopper said, “You get a limited number of years to gather and sow as many oats as possible — but someday your heart will fail and young lungs will collapse. All that will remain on this earth is a shell.”

He added, “We must all recognize death is eminent and it is painful.”

But the point to this message of death, held all the hope for the future. “No matter when death comes — all that will be left is the sum total of your life,” he said.

He counted memories of loved ones as the legacy that will continue. Memories told become stories, and “They give a more detailed picture of that person’s life.”

Fact is, Hopper said, “Forever in our minds are our loved ones that can’t be replaced. Our legacy is what remains on earth as to who we are, long after our death.”

But even memories will fade over time. “Then we look at the contributions on this earth, as what will define us.” Here was his main point. “The sum of our life is our legacy.”

“This is the heart of what our Memorial Day is truly about. Many men and women have laid down their lives — and their purposes felt by everyone, was far greater than we could ever imagine.”

Sadly, Hopper admitted, “To most Americans the sacrifice becomes nothing more than a face on the evening news.”

But in actuality, “The freedom we enjoy outlives the pain of their death.”

Fact is, the ability we have to enjoy life today, “Was entirely secured by those who died for us.”

Hopper reiterated his three main points:

1. Death is painful and absolute.

2. A person’s legacy will define them.

3. What your purpose is on earth, it was only made possible by those who put their lives before your own.

Hettling, adding a salute to all veterans, wrapped up Hopper’s message by saying, “Freedom is fragile and needs to be closely guarded.”

Taunton may be small town America — but it annually brings a “Big Time Message” all Americans should hear.