Having lived in the U.S. for over 20 years, I've come to look forward to the last Monday of May, Memorial Day.

It's nice to have an extra day off, but this day feels like a turning point that dramatically changes the atmosphere in the country. It's not just a day off; it carries a deeper significance and plays a role in shifting the seasonal flow.

The day originated from Decoration Day, which began shortly after the Civil War when flowers were placed on the graves of fallen soldiers. Over time, it was officially designated as a federal holiday in 1971, and now it honors all military personnel who sacrificed their lives for the country, not just those from specific wars.

On this day, you can easily see American flags placed not only in national cemeteries but also in local graveyards. Even small towns hold parades, and the atmosphere is surprisingly calm and serious. Families with military service experience often find this day particularly meaningful. While it may seem like a peaceful holiday on the surface, it's a day that evokes a unique sense of patriotism and connection in America.

However, there's a practical appeal as well.

March and April can feel somewhat ambiguous when living in the U.S. Winter is over, but the weather is unpredictable, and Easter is not a federal holiday, leading to a stretch of over two months without any holidays, making daily life feel prolonged.

There's a sense of continuity, but no clear break during this period. Memorial Day serves as that clear break.

The weather stabilizes around this time. Days get longer, and the sunlight becomes noticeably stronger, changing how people move about.

Barbecue season essentially kicks off at this point, and outdoor activities like camping start to increase significantly. In the southern regions, summer mode begins in earnest. The previously ambiguous season is clearly defined, changing the overall atmosphere of life.

For the Korean community, there's an additional reason to appreciate this holiday.

In Korea, May is filled with events and holidays, while spring in the U.S. tends to pass quietly.

This can lead to a buildup of fatigue as March and April go by. When Memorial Day arrives at that time, it feels particularly significant. It's a great time for family outings and planning trips or gatherings.

In summary, Memorial Day is not just a simple holiday.

It's a meaningful day to remember those who sacrificed for the country, while also serving as a starting point to transition from a long, ambiguous spring into summer.

As I continue to live in the U.S., I now understand why this day is so eagerly anticipated.

However, in the LA area, this time also marks the beginning of a gloomy period with overcast skies.