It’s An Important Day

Today I played with my daughters in at a water park.  We had an incredible time.  I got very sunburned.  The only fear we had to manage was whether or not my oldest daughter would stop and go to the restroom and if my youngest daughter would freak out when it was time to leave.  We enjoyed the weather; we enjoyed our family; we enjoyed our freedom.

There is one aspect of my family that I have been enormously proud of even as a child.  My Grandfather served as a sailor in World War II.  I took the Purple Heart he was awarded for his service at Normandy to show and tell in elementary school.  I have his uniform in my closet.  He was a great and selfless man.  My father served in our country's military.  I used to wear his hats and pretend to be a military man.  As best as I can figure, I am the first male in our family line who hasn't served in the military.  God has a different plan for me.  I however catch myself from time to time questioning myself and my willingness to serve our country.  I wonder if I was just afraid of the cost.  I wonder if I just ran away from such a demanding role. 

I am so grateful for the men and women that serve our country and our God faithfully.  Today as I enjoyed the freedom each of them provide I am reminded of the families who have made the ultimate sacrifice for me.  To each of our military families I say thank you.  Thank you for having the greatest love that has ever existed and will ever exist for our country, our freedom, my family, our God, and for me.