Episode 234: Earn This...Earn It! - Momentum Mondays

About this episode

Christopher Littrell reflects on the true meaning of Memorial Day and how we can honor the sacrifices of others through small acts of kindness.

In this special Memorial Day edition of Momentum Monday, Christopher Littrell reflects on the true meaning of Memorial Day and why it stands apart from both Armed Forces Day and Veterans Day. Veterans Day allows us to thank those who served. Armed Forces Day allows us to recognize those currently serving. But Memorial Day is different. Memorial Day honors the men and women who gave their lives in service to this country—the ones we can no longer shake hands with, look in the eye, or personally thank. Christopher shares a powerful reflection inspired by the film Saving Private Ryan and the unforgettable final words of Captain John Miller to Private James Ryan: “Earn this.” What does it mean to earn the sacrifice of others? While some people may honor that sacrifice through heroic acts or extraordinary service, Christopher challenges listeners to consider a different perspective: maybe we earn freedom in the small, everyday moments. Hold the door open for someone. Help your neighbor. Offer kindness to a stranger. Hand a bottle of water to someone in need. Freedom is a gift paid for by others. The question isn’t whether we can repay it—we can’t. The question is how we choose to live…

People in this episode

Host: Christopher Littrell

Topics covered

• Memorial Day
• sacrifice
• leadership
• gratitude
• service
• humanity

Keywords

• Memorial Day
• sacrifice
• gratitude
• leadership
• kindness
• service

Sponsors

First Responder Health

Mentioned in this episode

Books & works: Saving Private Ryan

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