From the ArcaMax Publishing, ArcaMax Chef Newsletter:
http://www.arcamax.com/news/arcamaxchef/s-559891-924023
Back to my "restful" beach holiday next time ...
I hope everyone had a nice Memorial Day Weekend. We had a wonderful
time and also took many opportunities to explain to our kids the
meaning behind the holiday and how important it is to give thanks to
those who have given their last measure for this country. In fact,
the Jungle Boys (our 15 and 17 year old sons) probably got tired of me
doing the explaining since we were together all weekend ... but that
is OK. They will remember our conversations and, as they mature,
realize more fully just how important the holiday is. I am confident
that they will, in turn, take the time to explain the importance of
this remembrance on to their kids.
One of the things that struck me while explaining to my kids how much
we owe to the members of our armed forces ... the men and women that
put their lives on the line for me everyday don't even know me. I am
not related to nor even familiar with anyone who is currently or has
recently served in Iraq or Afghanistan.
I don't know anyone who fought in any of the wars before World War II.
However, the men and women who fought and died in those wars did so
for my benefit as much as anyone else. They were fighting to preserve
our freedoms and must have known that their sacrifices would benefit
many generations to come.
I do know and/or are related to men that fought in World War II, Korea
and the wars leading up to the most recent conflicts. But the family
members and friends of mine that served didn't serve just for me or
their family and friends ... they served for all of us.
The same is true of the brave men and women that serve as police
officers, firemen and other emergency responders. They put their
lives on the line every day for people they do not know and may never
see again. What a tremendous and unselfish sacrifice!
Maybe you got busy with cookouts or functions and let the holiday slip
by without giving thanks. The good news is that it is never too late.
There are a multitude of organizations that support our troops and
their families, as well as the families of fallen police officers,
firemen and others who serve us and are so important to our way of
life. Pick some of these organizations and give of yourself ... be it
with money, time or other means of support. It is a very thoughtful
way to give thanks, our service providers deserve it and you will feel
better for it.
God Bless America.
Enjoy!