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Monday, May 28, 2007

Thanks Guys (gender inclusive)

Today is Memorial Day in the States. Richard had the day off, so it really felt like more of a long weekend for us than last week, when Canada "celebrated" Victoria Day. For the past eight years, while living in the US, I always made a specific effort to remember the sacrifices of both American and Canadian soldiers, both past and present, on Memorial Day.

I'll do the same today.

Most, if not all, of you know my position on the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. That doesn't matter today. My political views and extreme distaste of certain leaders are insignificant at the moment. Today, it's about gratefulness.

I am thankful for the men and women who have decided that defending their country (be it Canada or the US) is more important than financial gain. I am thankful for the men and women whose blood, sweat and tears are shed because they believe in protecting their nation. I am thankful for the families who kiss our soldiers good-bye, and somehow, let them go for months at a time.

I remember thinking, in the dead of a Texas summer, when the mercury rose to well over 110 degrees, how this would be a cool summer day in Iraq. I looked down at my jean shorts and flip flops, and wondered what it would feel like to wear combat boots and full uniform in this kind of heat. Wow. I sweat just thinking about it.

I also often wonder if I'd ever be able to muster up the inner strength to kiss Richard goodbye for six months at a time. SIX MONTHS. Ellie wouldn't even remember who her daddy was after that amount of time. And thousands of families are dreading that day in the airport right now. Thousands of wives are pleading with God to keep their husbands safe yet another day.

And here I sit, in my air conditioned house, watching a good ole hockey game (Go Sens!), sipping my fresh coffee, knowing that my husband will be back from his hour-long trip to Canadian Tire any minute.

Today, I thank the guys (both men and women) who have given me the ability to do all those things. I thank the guys who are are running the obstacle course in basic training. I thank the guys who are trying to sleep in a tent in the middle of the desert, when the overnight low is 100 degrees. I thank the guys who are holding down the fort in North America.

Merci Buckets.

2 comments:

* ~ *Jessica* ~ * said...

This hit home Chrystie! I've had 2 BIL's in Iraq (one is still there), cousins, & friends. Thank you for taking notice & remembering!!!

Anonymous said...

Hey Chrystie,

Just wanted to say HELLO & that
I love your blog!!! Also wanted to gloat in our DUCKS victory!!! LOL....not realy a huge hockey fan but the ducks are local!!
-Melissa