An Old Soldier

My sister and I like nothing better than to see an old solider, especially one driving an old truck with a dog in the back. But we don't see this like we used to. Old soldiers die, old trucks end up in the junk yard, and dogs graduate to air-conditioned cars.

Around Memorial Day and Veterans Day I think of old soldiers all the more.  While each of these days have their own purpose, I can't help but ponder them in much the same fashion.  The freedom I've always known didn't just happen.  It came and still remains at a tremendous price and sacrifice.
 
May 30 is Memorial Day, but it's often observed on the last Monday in May and makes for a nice long weekend. I pause to remember the masses that died in combat as well as the wounded who have since passed on. The cost of freedom has been multitude time and again during the history of my country. It touches me soul-deep just to think about it.

Veterans Day falls on November 11.  It's the day set aside to honor those still living who have served in times of war and peace. I daydream about lining up each one side by side -- old, young, male and female. I would walk by each one and say thank you with a handshake; probably even a hug. I would pet their dogs and admire their trucks. My sister would join me.

Whether it be Memorial Day or Veterans Day -- it's all about being grateful.  And, I am -- exceedingly so.