Salute to our Veterans

I have found myself today spending some time in thought about those who gave of themselves, many the ultimate sacrifice, for our country. Today a dear friend buried his mother, right next to his father, who was a great hero of the military. It was fitting, he said, to have his mother buried right next to his father on Veteran's Day. That day has always been special to him, as it was to his father.

I am always in awe of those who give these sacrifices for us and our country. I was talking to another friend today about how I wish we took better care of our military and their families. We seem to have so much to give as a country, for every disaster that comes along, for those less fortunate, etc., and yet sometimes it seems we forget those who give the ultimate sacrifice for us. I wish that were different.

I have been so very blessed to have been able to give just a small portion of myself to some of our deployed military, whether in writing letters or sending care packages. And when someone says, "wow, that's a great thing you do," I am quick to tell them that no, it's not me who does something great. It is those who serve, both at home and abroad. THEY are what it's all about and I get back more than I could ever give in that support.

And so, for today, I salute those folks who have served our country. Without them, I wouldn't have the freedom and safety I have today. And for that, I am eternally grateful.