Memorial Day, the last Monday in May, is a holiday that originated in the years following the Civil War. It was originally known as Decoration Day. In the late 1860s, Americans began holding tributes to fallen soldiers by decorating the graves of the lost soldiers with flowers.

In this episode, Nikki and Monica discuss Memorial Day and acknowledging our brave brothers and sisters who have sacrificed their lives for our nation and our freedoms. They also discuss the need to come together to support others coping with grief on Memorial Day. Memorial Day weekend can bring up a number of emotions for people who've lost someone.

Monica is personally dealing with grief and will forever associate Memorial Day with the passing of her mother, Delma Marquez, exactly a year ago today. As a tribute to her mother, Monica shares with you a cover rendition of Bette Midler’s “Wind Beneath My Wings”, her mother’s favorite song.

 

Highlights:

[00:44] Memorial Day

[01:16] Remembering those who are dealing with grief and loss

[02:56] Leaning on others when coping with loss

[06:22] Reaching out to comfort others

[06:57] Monica’s tribute to her mother, Delma Marquez

 

Quotes:

“It's not the posters on the wall that speaks to your humanity or your care for people within your organizations. It's how you treat them at the time of their challenges.”– Nikki Barua

“It’s vital for companies to have a culture of support and know that we are human. And we have other responsibilities and that sometimes those trump work.” – Monica Marquez

 

About Nikki Barua:

Nikki Barua is a digital innovator, serial entrepreneur, author & speaker. Learn more at https://www.nikkibarua.com/.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenikkibarua/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenikkibarua/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikkibarua/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NikkiBarua

 

About Monica Marquez:

Monica Marquez is an ex-Googler, diversity expert and senior corporate leader. Learn more at https://themonicamarquez.com/.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMonicaMarquez/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themonicamarquez/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/themonicamarquez/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/themmarquez

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