Forgotten Soldier Program . . . Giving Hope So No One Is Forgotten

Memorial Day sometimes weighs so heavy on my heart. It is so easy to see it as just a fun, three-day weekend to hang out in the sunshine with friends and family - yet there are so many families missing their loved ones because they gave the ultimate sacrifice. Brave men and women who dedicated their lives to serving our country to protect and defend our freedom and the freedom of others around the world. May we never forget these brave and courageous heroes! May we always respect and honor the red, white and blue colors and cherish their meaning and purpose!

  • Red stands for “hardiness and valor.” It represents courage and sacrifice. Some also claim that it’s related to the bloodshed of the heroes who fought to protect the freedom of America.

  • White on the flag means “purity and innocence.” America is described as “pure” because we are independent of other countries and stay true to our beliefs and ideals.

  • Blue means “vigilance and perseverance.” It’s used to remind citizens to stay watchful and strong.

In honor of Memorial Day, we took a walk to our neighboring community garden . . . The Forgotten Soldier Program in Auburn, California. This amazing place is in our backyard - almost literally! It is a place of PEACE. A place to spend time honoring, reflecting and remembering our fallen heroes who served in our Armed Forces.

The pavilion and garden features beautiful garden beds, a globally recognized 11-ring labyrinth that is more than 150 yeas old, fountains, statues and artwork all paying tribute to brave men and women who served our country.

While in the park, I took the time to read every plaque . . . reflecting on the person(s) and their family.(ies) Not only did it seem appropriate, but it felt important. We need to take time out of our lives to reflect, remember and pay tribute to those who sacrificed and gave so much!

The Forgotten Soldier Program is 501 (c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to offering the highest complementary integrative health care services for optimized treatment and preventive care that strengthens physical, mental, and spiritual health of Veterans.  Since 2005, they have helped over 22,000 Veterans and their family members – and at no cost to those being served.

In the garden there is a beautiful brick area is filled with engraved bricks honoring our heroes and loved ones. The Forgotten Soldier Program offers people and businesses an opportunity to pay tribute to our heroes by purchasing a brick. In honor of Memorial Day, Mandala Moon Candle Co. proudly purchased a brick for the garden to honor our fallen soldiers and to be a part of a community organization that provides such a beautiful place for healing and coming together. Forever Grateful!

The statues and artwork throughout the park are beautiful!

For More Information About The Forgotten Soldier Program Please Visit Their Website

The Forgotten Soldier Program

BE RADIANT | SHARE LIGHT | ILLUMINATE LOVE

Wendy Steinmetz