Veteran's Day

Today, while going about my responsibilities around town, I had opportunity to observe an elderly man who was obviously the keeper of his home. After a few concerned glances in his direction, my eyes were drawn to his baseball cap. It was a little bit dented and sitting high on the crown of his head. As my heart lurched to my throat, I felt myself stepping toward him and saying, "Sir, I see that your hat says Veteran World War II. Proud to have served. I just want to say thank you for the freedoms you fought for all those years ago, that I am enjoying today!" His eyes glimmered, and just as though no time had passed, he began to tell me stories of the 39 months of his service to our nation, back in the 1940's.
He continued, "Well, I wore this hat today because I couldn't go down to the thing (I think he may have meant parade). My wife has dialysis 3 times a week and I'm her rock. Well, I do it all I guess, and I couldn't go." I said, "Life is hard sometimes isn't it?" He replied, "Yes yes it is, but I appreciate you saying thank you."

My heart twisted within me. He fought for MY freedom. Your freedom. He's walked a long journey and the burden of life is bending him. All I could do was say thank you. It seemed so inadequate.

I continued with my day. My path crossed with another soldier in uniform. My oh my, he looked like a kid. He had a cheery girl with him. He stood straight and tall above me, imposingly. Once again, I said, "Thank you sir for your service on behalf of our country." He replied, "Well thank you ma'am."

Veteran's Day.
To honor all who have served.
Land that I love!
Rachel