Siting on a couch in Jacksonville, NC, where the local news often covers the movement of our local Camp Lejeune Marines, I watched a news story about the fact that this is the 6th holiday season that our troops have been fighting this war. Not everybody remembers those in uniform (because, really, this war isn't tangible for those who don't have a loved one in the service) and the holiday season is no different.
The news story told me that these Marines were ready and excited to deploy. For some it was their first tour, for some of the more seasoned folks, it was their second or third time away from their families during the holiday season. One Marine Lieutenant said that many of these families already did "their Christmases," and for once, I understood what that meant. The military doesn't move for you. You learned to move around what the military asks of your service member.
So this holiday season, listening to Christmas songs, one struck a chord with me. I've sung it and felt wistful every time but this time (because my family is far away), I thought about the meaning of being in a war zone and away from loving family and cozy fires and presents for the holidays... "I'll be Home for Christmas" told a different story this year.
I'll be home for Christmas. You can count on me.
...if only in my dreams
Even if it's not thanksgiving, give thanks.
I'm thankful:
1) Our troops
2) My home
3) My new job!!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
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