Finding ways to celebrate a loved one’s memory becomes vital for many after they pass away, as losing a loved one is always a tough event. While flower arrangements and other tributes are typical, there is a specific meaning associated with laying pennies on gravestones, especially for veterans and service members and their families.
A Tradition Worth Keeping
Though its exact roots are unknown, some have speculated that the custom of laying coins on gravestones originated during the Roman Empire. However, according to Snopes, there is insufficient evidence to back up this assertion. However, one thing is certain: people who have a strong bond with military people are aware of the sacrifices they make and are looking for a significant way to remember their lost colleagues.
It became increasingly difficult for people to express their emotions honestly during the Vietnam War. It became customary to place a coin on a soldier’s tomb to signify that someone had paid them a visit without running the danger of awkward talks regarding the political sides of the conflict. The gesture was a straightforward but effective way for people to express respect and unity.
Symbolic Honor Representations
Every penny placed on a gravestone has a special meaning associated with it. Here are few instances:
A penny is a sign that someone has paid their respects and visited the tomb.
Deeper emotional significance can be derived from a nickel, which represents a bond between the individual who left it and the dead soldier from boot camp.
A dime signifies cooperation, even if it was just briefly before splitting up.
The most important coin, the quarter, acts as a monument by informing the bereaved family that the person who left the coin was there during their time of grief.
These coins remind us of the sacrifices made by those who serve in the military and act as tangible representations of respect and tribute, bridging the gap between the past and present.
Past Gravestones
Not all military traditions involve coins, such as placing money on gravestones. Military troops are big fans of challenge coins, which have no monetary worth but are extremely significant. These coins, which stand for oneness, are frequently traded as trophies of friendship and honor.
Throughout history, coins have also had a variety of roles in cultural practices. They have been regarded as representations of good fortune, giving, and even riches. While this isn’t always the case, some people in the past were buried with their riches. For instance, it’s been reported that two dollars and fifty cents were buried with Abraham Lincoln’s eyes covered.
The deeper significance of laying pennies on gravestones is to commemorate and recognize the extraordinary efforts made by those who are serving in the military and their families, even though there may not be a clear relationship between money and this practice. It serves as a reminder to ourselves that their sacrifices are priceless.
Although she behaved like usual, everyone she met mocked her
Jacqueline Adan, a 29-year-old woman from California, has an incredibly inspiring story that serves as a reminder that no dream is too far out of reach when you have determination and the will to succeed. Her journey is proof that with persistence, anything is possible—even when the goal feels impossible at first.
Jacqueline shared her incredible weight loss story on her blog, and it quickly resonated with millions of people, earning her a wide and dedicated following.
Here’s her story in her own words:
“I’m Jacqueline Adan, 29 years old, from California, and I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life.
From a young age, I battled with body image issues and hated the way I looked. As my self-esteem plummeted, my eating habits worsened. I became trapped in a cycle of overeating, feeling guilty afterward, but not knowing how to break free. No matter what diets I tried, I always gained the weight back, often with extra pounds added on.
I was constantly preoccupied with food and my body, and I was tired of living that way. In college, I completely gave up on dieting. I just wanted to experience a “normal” college life, so I ate whatever everyone else ate without concern.
But everything changed in 2011, just before my 25th birthday. My boyfriend, Kevin, and my sister, Jenny, suggested a trip to Disneyland, a place I’d always dreamed of visiting.
But when we arrived, my excitement quickly turned to frustration. I was so out of shape that I could barely walk through the gates without needing to rent a wheelchair. I felt humiliated and ashamed that my weight had gotten to a point where I couldn’t even enjoy the things I loved.
When I tried to go on a ride with my family, I realized I wouldn’t even fit on the turnstile. That moment was heartbreaking, and I couldn’t stop crying. But it was also a turning point. I knew then that I had to change. I was determined to get my life back.
A few weeks after that trip, in February 2012, I made a phone call to Jenny Craig. The moment I stepped on the scale and saw the number, I broke down in tears. But after wiping my eyes, I declared, ‘Okay, I can do this.’ I set a goal to lose 100 pounds, and I was determined to see it through. This time, I knew I couldn’t let anything stop me.
With the help of Jenny Craig, my family, and my friends, I lost 100 pounds in just one year. It was hard, but the results were incredible.
My next trip to Disneyland was different. I could fit on every ride. By 2013, I had lost 200 pounds, and I felt unstoppable.
But even though I had made great progress, I still faced challenges. I struggled to get enough calories, which made my migraines worse, and the weight loss was still hard. But I refused to give up. I started experimenting with new meals and learned to remind myself that eating wouldn’t undo my progress. Over time, I turned things around.
In January 2015, I joined a boot camp at “Fit For Life Solutions,” and I absolutely loved it!
Though I currently weigh around 350 pounds, I’m still working hard to maintain my health. This journey hasn’t been without its struggles, including issues with rashes, neck and back pain, and headaches from excess skin. I’m recovering from my first skin removal surgery, but I’m staying positive and focused on the future.
I still have a long way to go, but I’m proud of the progress I’ve made. I no longer feel ashamed of my body. I no longer need a wheelchair to enjoy places like Disneyland, and I no longer worry about fitting on rides.
In fact, my family jokingly says that I’ll have a destination wedding where I’ll skip the bridal gown and exchange vows in a white designer bikini instead.
As Disney says, ‘Anything is possible; all you need is a little bit of confidence, trust, and fairy dust.’ With determination and belief in ourselves, there’s no limit to what we can achieve.”
Jacqueline’s story is a powerful reminder that with the right mindset and support, we can overcome any obstacle.
Let’s celebrate her success by sharing this inspiring story with our family and friends!
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