A second helping of Thanksgiving

I just returned from my second Thanksgiving dinner.  This one was extra special (not that my immediate family one wasn't).  It was held today because two of my friends couldn't be here Thursday.  They were on their way back from Afghanistan.
We were a mixed group - some immediate family of the young couple (I've known the young woman since she was born), some close family friends.  But we all shared how incredibly grateful we were for their safe return and the fact that they willingly gave up several months of their lives to be there as Americans. 

It's too easy sometimes to forget the sacrifices others make while we sit safely at home, often complaining about the most mundane things.  Despite tough times, most of us still have much to be grateful for here.  But over there, things were much more challenging.  From long hours, to dust storms, to uncooked food, to being far from home, life wasn't that pleasant for them.  But they did it.

What are we willing to do?  Are we willing to give something up to help others who we'll never even see?  Or are we too absorbed in our Black Friday shopping and constant wish for more?  Have we forgotten the simple pleasures we get to experience almost at will?  Real food?  A comfy bed?  Electricity?

On the way home, I heard a little of "60 Minutes" where they were saying that something like 16 million children are homeless and living in cars, motels, outside.  I believe that as Americans, it's time we all stepped up a bit and gave more of our time, our money, our possessions to give a lift to those who truly need it.

As the Christmas holiday season begins this Thanksgiving weekend, let's all try to go above and beyond and lend a hand to those who need it.  And a big thanks to Cassie and Chris who make me proud to be an American.  Unlike the celebrities and athletes who are splashed across the media for doing things that are often not particularly commendable, these two airmen like many other service men and women across the country deserve our deep appreciation.  I'm so honored to know you both.