The following is a post I made in March of 2008 in a previous blogging contribution. It bears repeating today. 80 years ago our Nation was drawn into a terrible global conflict. December 7, 1941. The invasion of Pearl Harbor. But at the foundation of hope to overcome was an unrelenting, steadfast force of selfless men and women. They were determined to overcome the terrible blight of that day. The United States was at War. Please read on as I share this post – remembering 80 years ago today:
“I paid a visit to one of the Minnesota Veteran’s Homes yesterday and had the opportunity to share some time with a resident. Until that moment he was unknown to me. But our conversation managed to awaken a flood of memories related to many dear friends now since departed. Without exception, the lives of each has made my life richer with the lessons they shared – and, in passing, less full in the profound absence of their physical presence.
The bonds of friendship
Each friendship has been a journey laden with joy as immense as sorrow’s depth. These men and women understood not just the concept of allegiance, but the cost. Through it all, I believe their strengths have shared a common thread. As difficult as times were – with hardships I can’t even fathom – these great humans were never hardened in their hearts. In fact, that alone – their tenacious grasp on human kindness and patience, an unwavering hope for greater good – is likely what allowed them to survive these gravest of moments in our Nation’s recent history.
And with the passing of each – as we pay final tribute – the same question taunts my confidence: Could we ever be as strong as these? (I pray that we should never find out.)
He was tough but never hardened
Not long ago I was driving through town and noticed an elderly gentlemen waiting to cross the street. I slowed to a stop so that he could cross. When I did, I recognized him – a WWII Veteran and close friend of the family. I had not seen him in some time but had heard he was engaged in yet another trying battle – a battle with dementia. As I watched him pass before me, I saw in his stride the pride he held for our Nation. Here walked a man of Honor. My throat tightened with each step he took. His journey – his life – had become an endless confrontation with forces that first sought to debilitate governments with the same callous ravage as he was now facing in his own mind.
And then, just as he stood directly in front of my paused vehicle, in a moment that will never escape my memory, he turned towards me. He was no longer able to recognize who I was, but it did not matter. From the depths of his being, he straightened his worn frame, stood at attention, and saluted. There was no point in trying to fight the tears that ran down my cheeks. He would remain unwavering and steadfast – to God and Country – until his final step.
He turned and proceeded to the other side of the street to continue his, by all appearances, carefree journey – distracted by little, or nothing at all.
Service to others today, like 80 years ago
The post is all about service to others – and to our Great Nation. For each of us – you and I – in all we do, regardless of what we do, we should do our very best in service to those around us.
80 years ago – not so long ago
Many folks living today remember that horrific day in history and recount the events of the day. Yes, and we still have numerous Veterans that served our Country going forward from that day. Today, Veteran’s Day is only one month past. The bombing of Pearl Harbor is a not so distant 80 years ago today. Take a moment to thank a Veteran – or ‘future’ Veteran – for their service to our Nation. Also, through a handshake or a pat on the back, we might feel the immeasurable strength of those tough hearts that were never hardened. May God continue to bless America with hearts such as these.”
Please leave a comment if you liked this post or wish to share a personal memory. Contact me if you wish to keep your comments private. Especially on this day, I wish for each of you and all the world, peace.
