In a world where history battles with fleeting social trends, Riverside Cemetery in Saddle Brook, New Jersey, stands as a sentry of American values and history. Opening its gates in 1906, this cemetery has offered solace and reflection for over a century. Situated in Bergen County, it serves as the final resting place for many, casting a long shadow of tradition and values that modern society often overlooks or, worse, seeks to cancel.
Riverside Cemetery isn't just a plot of land where people lie in eternal rest. It’s part of our American heritage. This isn't some fancy garden to stroll in for an Instagram photo; it's a place where memories are honored, and the past is preserved. As we see society seek to erase or rewrite history, places like this remind us of the foundational elements that made this country great.
Imagine the contrast: our war heroes, doctors, teachers, mothers, and fathers resting in peace while outside people argue about what values our nation should hold dear. The old trees whisper stories of past glories, triumphs, and lessons learned. Now more than ever, it's time to point out that these aren’t just names etched in stone; they’re legacies etched in our character.
Walking down the cemetery paths, you'll come across graves marked with the Star of David, a testament to the Jewish community's enduring presence in this area. These plots speak to the diversity and resilience ingrained in our national tapestry. It’s a stark reminder that, while some may preach tolerance, real-world tolerance was built by embracing all Americans, regardless of where they came from or how they worship.
Like any historical cemetery worth its weight in salt, Riverside has its share of well-remembered residents. Among them is Wolf Gold, a noted rabbi and Zionist leader, who helped plant some of the seeds of modern Israel. Here lies a man who wasn’t afraid to stand for a cause he believed in, an example in stark contrast to today's culture where people remain perpetually offended yet opportunistically silent on causes that don't fit their narrative.
Ever wonder why cemeteries like Riverside matter so much? In this supposed age of enlightenment and progress, people find value only in present-day affirmations. But to truly progress, we must remember where we've been, the struggles we've overcome, and the ideals that have carried us through. The solidarity among those buried in Riverside Cemetery reminds us that for all our differences, there's a common bond that unites us.
Through years of storms, both literal and metaphorical, Riverside continues to stand strong. Not because people ignored adversity but because they faced it head-on. Reverence isn’t just in remembering lives lived; it’s in recognizing the sacrifices made for liberties enjoyed today. It’s high time we celebrate sites like Riverside for what they are—symbols of perseverance and continuity.
So next time you're in New Jersey, or perhaps if you're a local who has never taken the time, visit Riverside Cemetery. It's not just an archaic institution; it’s a tribute to every individual who helped build the narrative of a powerful nation. It’s a place where they rest knowing they contributed to creating a society that ideally should remain strong and united, despite the times seeking to divide.
A visit to Riverside isn’t about a fixation on death. It’s an understanding of life deeply rooted in American grit, sheer perseverance, and the acknowledgment that every grave tells a tale worth hearing. It’s a narrative liberals might dismiss because it involves looking back to understand how we leap forward.
To ignore this cemetery is to ignore the voices of those who preceded us and shaped the contours of our freedom. After all, if we don’t know where we come from, how do we know where we’re headed?