Why do we take flowers to the cemetery on Memorial Day weekend?

My answers to this question is the same as why I take flowers to the cemetery anytime: To show respect to a loved one that has passed away (not limited to family members).

Memorial Day was designated to show respect for those that have served our country “Veterans.” But it is a good day to give flowers to all friends and loved ones that have passed.

Many of us take flowers more than once a year. I don’t like the term “graves,” but some spots at cemeteries have flowers of some kind year round.

Each cemetery has it’s own rules. Often times the cemetery is visited and nothing is left but maybe kind thoughts, a few words and very possibly tears. For what ever reason it is very personal and should be respected.

Right here at Spring Canyon Cemetery, I have taken flowers to a friend and had them taken or moved to another person’s “grave” or spot two different years.

Really, people? I don’t understand.

They were the first and only flowers there when I put them there. I watered them daily and they were pretty, not wilted.

The Veterans placed the flag. Across from the flag I put flowers. I put a yard light next to the flag for the weekend.

My flowers were moved to a different row and other person (not by a cemetery grounds keeper) and eventually taken from Spring Canyon.

This year the person that moved my flowers told me they moved them and gave me “permission” to move them back after the flag dedication ceremony! So this was purely for show for her!

I try not to let this person see my pain, but I can’t believe she did this. I didn’t have much to say because I was shocked. Really?

By the way, the flag and my flowers were at the base of the stone for a reason. There is a big blue sign at the front of the cemetery. I invite you and anyone entering Spring Canyon Cemetery to read it!

(You moved my flowers from the base of the stone and put your flowers in the ground at the top of the stone!) Nothing is to be poked or driven into the ground at the top of the headstones. The underground sprinklers water pipe is up there. It damages the sprinkler system that keeps Spring Canyon Cemetery Green.

Holly Allen