Veteran's Day Suggestions

I was taken last week by the overwhelming respect and gratitude shown by the Dana Hills High School's student body, and especially by the athletes and their genuine sincerity for the evening. I was one of 73 nominated veterans for the Honor the Valor ceremonies. It included a pre-game dinner sponsored by Chick-fil-A, a pre-game band honoring the veterans, a half time show that was themed patriotic, and following the game - a jersey presentation by a player who wore our name on that jersey during the game. My player was Tommy Bortnick.

Some suggestions I read some years ago have justifiable meaning regarding a veteran you may encounter. It goes something like this .... and it's the way most of us feel deeply about.

• Please don't ask us if we killed anyone in combat, or even be snide about it. It's difficult enough speaking to our spouses and family members, let alone strangers.
• Thanking us for our service is greatly appreciated.
• Please don't get into political opinions regarding our service. In our minds eye, it cheapens the meaning of a best friend who died protecting those same opinions. Sometimes it's just a good idea to keep your opinions to yourself. We are simply proud to have served.
• Far too many of us have PTSD. Should you witness us acting anxious or moving away from crowds, turning our backs to the walls, or even fidgeting, simple kindness and understanding would be most appreciated. We often need breathing room with conversations about something interesting.
• As with many of us who has a disability, please do not stare. Veterans can be sensitive about scars or injuries, and really don't wish to rewind the experience by questions asked. And remember, many of the injuries are not visible, thus be sensitive enough NOT to challenge it.

Many of us with disabilities appreciate light conversation and assistance if we look like we are in need. As for myself ... I'm damn proud to have served!

"To be a veteran one must know and determine one's price for freedom."

Keep Your Head High, Chin Up

Have you ever seen or heard a rooster crow with his head down? NO! He's always has his head up and flapping his wings exuberantly.

Someone has said, "I like to see a rooster crow because he reminds me of so many men I know who wave their arms and shout without a damned thing to crow about."

As this may be true, on the other hand, sitting down and wishing will never change your fate. The Lord provides the fishing, you must dig the bait.

It is said that opportunity knocks at your door but once, and then goes its way to come no more. This is not true for those who hold their head high and are ready to open the door whether the bell rings or not. Do your best with what you have and you may expect the best. Take for instance the performance of Noah Galloway, of 'Dances With The Stars'. Dancing without an arm and leg and yet he exudes confidence and possesses a zest for life.

Are you still a doubter? Bear this in mind; no one wins with a head hung low. You've got to be ready and on the go to attract attention. But that is not all. Have courage, believe in yourself, and keep your head up wherever you go. The one who lets his head hang low will stumble along letting the habit grow wherever he goes. Remember, as you sow, so shall you reap, whether you laugh or whether you weep.

And consider this body of ours, fearfully and wonderfully made, according to a Psalm.

First, consider the skeletal system consisting of 208 bones in size from tiny bones in the ear to large and the irregular bones of the spine and pelvis. Then, there are 682 muscles, large and small, all of which pad the bones and bind them together in united form.

But, that is not all. Both bones and muscles would be meaningless without the nervous system that provides a means of communication from brain cells to tissue cells activating function and activity in all living cells. Amazing ... simply amazing.

No wonder your body has been called God's masterpiece. And, you have every reason to hold your chin up and your head high.