Reflections on the Way to Work

In furtherance of appreciating America, and embracing the spirit of patriotism, thoughts move quickly to the men and women who have defended our freedom throughout history and the sacrifices they and their families have made so that we may enjoy the benefits of democracy.

I had two experiences that inspired me to write the next two passages, one to a soldier taking off for his call to duty and the other, one who has returned from a call where his friend and brother died in combat. Both were meant to be song lyrics but without any skill for writing the accompanying music they have remained as passages to thank, honor and inspire the men and women in the military and their families.

For those of us that do not have a loved one in the military I don’t think we can ever truly appreciate the angst and worry that a loved one feels from the time they bid their farewells and send their loved one off to their tour of duty until such time as they return. Days, weeks, and months can pass without hearing from a loved one and it is hard to imagine what it must be like not knowing about their whereabouts or their wellbeing. The blog titled ” A Prayer for a Young Soldier” was inspired by a young soldier who was saying goodbye to his family at the Columbus, Ohio airport to what appeared to be his first tour.

The other blog titled “Be Free My Brother”  was inspired by articles and interviews I have read about soldiers returning from combat and the struggles that some of them face in light of their experience. Many struggle with the conflict they feel for having lived while their friends and buddies have passed away.   One day while walking along the Reflection Pond in Washington, D.C. my thoughts turned to the men and women who silently suffer and struggle to deal with their experiences.   I have tremendous empathy and it was written with the hope to inspire those struggling to move on with their lives in honor of their friends who sacrificed their lives for our freedom.