Memorial Day has become associated with the unofficial start of summer. It’s a time for barbeques, first dips in the pool, and long weekends with friends—all things that can be done safely and socially distanced for families with young children. And while the reprieve of a long weekend (for those who do not work on the federal holiday) to is going to be very welcome, we hope you’ll join us in taking a few minutes to remember the meaning of Memorial Day, honoring the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military, while celebrating those servicemembers who continue to sacrifice for our safety and wellbeing.

So often, we hear stories about service that make us imagine what life must be like in the military. On the news, in movies, and in books, each story is different from the one before it. No two people in the armed forces will have the same exact experience. When given the opportunity, it’s a privilege to hear someone’s service story from them, directly.

So, this weekend, whether you’re passing by a uniformed service member at the airport, in the crosswalk, or at a store, it’s always kind to thank them for their service. But how might we extend this kind gesture even further? 

This Memorial Day, consider working with your kind kid to connect with a veteran or service member to better understand what their experience in the armed forces was, or is, like. If you’re unsure where to start, ask your school or a neighbor if they have a friend or family member who would be willing to chat.

Here are a few questions to get you started, inspired by Adventure #50 in the Adventures in Kindness book:

1. Can you tell me where and when you served? 

2. How did your experience shape who you are today? 

3. What’s a lasting memory from being deployed? 

4. What was the best part of being in the service? 

5. What was the most difficult part of being in the service? 

Remember, not all folks will want to share, so start politely with an invitation to talk, and if they’re willing to share a bit of their experience with them, be sure to thank them for their time, and listen carefully to what they have to say. Keep a log of your interviewee’s answers and take note of what surprises, amazes, or interests you the most. This will be helpful when sharing what you’ve learned with friends, family members, or your classmates. All service members carry powerful stories— it’s important that we all do the work to pass them on.  

Saying thank you is an act of kindness, too! Send a handwritten note expressing your gratitude when the interview is over. As always, both little and big acts can go a long way.  

For more acts of kindness to show the troops and others, check out the book here.  Use code KINDSUMMER22 for free shipping and receive a free gift with your purchase!