Last week on Facebook a cartoon was posted by the official page for “Wreaths Across America” and it really caught my attention. I even “shared” it on my own wall. Although it was a cartoon, and cartoons are often funny, this one really had a powerful message. It started me thinking, and I thought I’d share it here as well, to pass along a very important reminder on this Memorial Day.
In the above cartoon, the little boy holding his plate of food, is asking his dad, “How much did all this cost?” and the answer, rather than being about the food, shows what looks to be a military cemetery such as the one in Arlington, Virginia, but it could be any veterans’ cemetery anywhere.
I thought about it for days. I really made me remember once again, that freedom truly isn’t free, and it reminded me just how grateful I am to all those who serve our country, to all those who give up the things we take for granted, to give us those things that we do take for granted, such as time with our loved ones. In that, I include all of the moms, dads, siblings, spouses and children of those who serve. They too, sacrifice the time with their families so that I can have mine.
I have always treasured the time I have with my children and my other family members, and I have always put my family first above all. It is because of those who give their lives and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, that we are able to have our family time together.
I once asked a military wife that I know if she minded her husband being gone for the year-long tours of duty. To me that would seem unbearable. Her answer surprised me, staying with me to this day, and although I can’t remember her word-for-word answer, I’ll paraphrase:
“Being in the military makes him who he is. He loves it and it’s a part of him. How can I say no to that?”
Happy Memorial Day and God Bless all who serve our country, as well as their families.
The Whole bag of Chips 
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