Thank a Soldier--Thank Your Mom

It's that time of year when we send flowers, gifts, and if we're local, take mom out to a nice dinner. When thinking about my mom I always remember the encouragement to learn new things, the unique things we would do to have fun (that didn't cost anything), and playing Scrabble with her and grandma. Although I'm not that close (I'm in AZ and she's in MI), I think of her all the time and always give her a call a few times a month.

Happy Mother's day mom. I love you.

As a retired soldier, one of the best things I ever got while in the field was mail. Letters from family were always the best and would always cheer me up. A surprise package from the girl scouts or boy scouts, or an elementary school, was really nice. It made me feel like my country was behind me. Thank you to all those soldiers, marines, airmen and sailors, who are in harms way--your service will never be forgotten.

To the families who have lost a loved one in Afghanistan, Iraq, or one of the many "hot spots" on the globe, I offer my solemn condolences. To a very special group--Military Spouses. You worry, you handle the family affairs, and you deal with all the red tape, while your husband or wife are gone. Your job is just as hard, or harder than your loved ones. Thank you for taking care of your wife or husband--may your reunion be one filled with happiness, romance, and excitement.

Many of us forget about the freedoms we enjoy--the right to vote, the right to free speech, the right to assembly, etc. Take a few moments to write a letter to one of our members of the armed forces--it only takes a few minutes and that letter will be the bright spot of someone's day.

Thank you mom for providing me with the skills to survive and cope in this world. Thank you to the Armed Forces. We are behind you 100% and then some. Your gift of service to the American people and our allies is something you can be proud of for the rest of your life.

Until next time...

Be Well, Be Grateful, and Be Happy,

Grateful Dave