Memorial Day
We attended a Memorial Day ceremony in Beach Park. I did my best to enjoy it. It always seems tragically sad to remember those who died prematurely in unnecessary wars. I consider the Vietnam War and all of those since, including those underway,–unnecessary. To disregard the evidence of your own senses, and to believe instead the story of politicians that your country is under attack –is a deadly absurdity. Yet, we fall for this sleight of hand over and over. The quintessential poem of war, Homer’s Iliad is about the carnage precipitated by the bruised ego of Menelaus. Many things have changed since the late bronze age, but not this.
At the ceremony of remembrance a role call of local young men who had fallen were read by a couple whose son’s name was on that list. I felt sadness for them.
The most satisfying memory of the weekend came when we dined at Mauri’s Famous Cafe in Mundelein. The understated store-front cafe on Hawley Street is indeed famous locally for its tasty breakfasts that are quickly served and reasonably priced. Having breakfast at Mauri’s was an unexpectedly 
pleasant experience. Not only was my plate of eggs, tortillas, with salsa delicious, but I was surrounded by the families of my neighbors here in Mundelein. I enjoyed observing individuals of all ages, from toddlers to the older patrons. Also I was aware that I was a minority Caucasian among a majority of Hispanic folk in the room. I felt at home.
Does not everyone who faithfully works, doing a good job, day in and day out; and those who attend to their children with solicitude and affection– sacrifice their lives to show their love of country? I think so.
