G is For Grateful, On Behalf of a Grateful Nation

An Alphabytes Entry

G is For Grateful, On Behalf of a Grateful Nation

It’s funny the direction this Alphabytes challenge has taken. It’s really had a mind of its own.

I’ve been struggling with a G word all day, and then it appeared to me. Grateful. On behalf of a grateful nation…

With the 60th anniversary of D-Day just last weekend, the reminiscing of my grandparents and their generation, the Greatest Generation. The death of an Icon of that generation, president Reagan, my grandmother Helen, her brother Miles, who died at Normandy, the soldiers that have served over the countless conflicts. To those who’ve died in their bunks, unknowing of the dangers that lurked so closely. To those who make the ultimate sacrifice everyday in the heat of the deserts of Afghanistan and Iraq, foregoing their family lives, the comforts of home and loved ones. Missing countless birthdays, anniversaries and magical moments like the births of their children, first laughs, first smiles, first steps, first words…the list is endless. For those who have given their lives in pursuit of the Freedoms Americans hold so dearly, yet abuse so freely.

I’ve seen much, been far. I know how lucky I am to be an American. I know how lucky I am to have the freedom to write this right now. I know, as I sit in my air conditioned house, with my computer running and my TV blaring, that I am one of the very lucky ones. I owe more than simply a debt of gratitude to those who pay the price to protect me and my family and my freedoms. I owe the ownership of my actions in using my freedoms.

To those who’ve served, given and those who will never come home, I owe you my eternal promise to never forget your sacrifices.

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