Gratitude

Is such a huge word that seems to have lost it's importance in todays society. In a previous posting you may remember I discussed how jumpy my son was when he arrived home on R&R with having so many civilians around him while he was walking through the airport terminal. I reflect on all the times that I would go out of my way when I see one of our countries soldiers out and about and approach them and shake their hand and thanking them for their service for our country not realizing that they themselves maybe just returning from a deployment in a combat zone. How they must feel having me violate their space and how jumpy they may be. You are probably scratching your head right about now what my point is right? Well after my son returned downrange to be his brothers of The 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team, I felt awkward about about saying thank you, being concerned about how awkward they may feel.

Then last night a wonderful thing happened. One of the proud Grandmothers of one of our "Sky Soldiers" sent me an email about a fine organization that has made it a lot easier to express my gratitude to all men and women serving this nation. This organization is called "The Gratitude Campaign" which everyone can get involved with. Please take a moment and visit and learn how you can show your own gratitude to our soldiers. Before I do give you a link to the organizations website I need you to do me a favor, get a tissue out because you may need it. That was the advice that the proud Grandmother gave me and well, you always listen to Granny right? Thanks Cheri! I took your advice and did I need it. O.K. enough with my rant, here is the website link and please, share it with EVERYONE you know. You will have to cut and paste into your browser. http://www.gratitudecampaign.org/fullmovie.php

Larry Arnone
San Francisco
AKA Bluestardad (and I want to keep it that way)