Memorial Day

Not too long ago, I attended a "Welcome Home" party for a friend who had just returned to America after being stationed in the Middle East.  I wanted my girls to join me as we celebrated his safety and service.  Not having anyone in our immediate circle of influence who is active duty military, I wanted them to see what it looks like for a soldier, with a wife and children, to come home after serving his country.
While they probably enjoyed the Frito Pie more than anything else that afternoon, I am glad that they got a chance to see a "real" soldier.  Our overexposure to media produces so many images, often causes the personal faces of war to be forgotten.

 

Me, Carlos and wife Jennifer

It's easy for me to overlook the fact that serving our nation requires incredible sacrifice at all levels.  Those who wear the uniform risk it all to make sure we enjoy the freedoms we take for granted.  But the families of those who serve are left to hold down the fort and carry on with the everyday business of life, all the while praying for the safe return of those they love.

So this Memorial Day weekend, take a moment to pause from your cookouts and camping trips to pray a prayer of safety for our troops and give thanks for the generations of men and women who were willing to do their part to make sure that America remains "The Land of the Free."