I learned in the Marines to run toward the sound of chaos. If the Marine to the right or left of us dies, we have to pick up their rifle and keep going. 

But what of the fallen – the men and women who’ve sacrificed their lives for the greatness of our nation?  

They are our friends, sons, daughters, brothers and sisters. Most importantly, they are our teachers. Their lives, and their deaths, have meaning. 

When I think of my friends who’ve died in service to our nation, here are a few lessons I know they’d want to pass along:

Something greater exists beyond yourself. In our “me, me, me” culture, remember: your freedom was purchased by someone willing to die for you. We all need to be worthy of their sacrifice.  

Service is life’s highest calling. We can’t have what we want without service to something greater than ourselves. Let service to others be our aim.

You hold life’s golden ticket. If you’re reading this, and you live in America, congratulations. There is no greater country. You’ve been handed a golden ticket in life – do something epic with the privilege you’ve been afforded.

The fallen would despise our division. We need to stop tearing each other down, creating us vs them scenarios. Let’s stop the division and start putting effort into finding common ground with our fellow countrymen.

Live fully today. My fallen service members wouldn’t want your worry—they’d want your action. You’re alive with a chance to make a difference. Your problems are surmountable. Move, feel alive, recommit. We have the opportunity to be epic—don’t waste it.

Have a reflective Memorial Day.