Salute by Angie Ledbetter

It's Memorial Day in America. I send out thanks to our soldiers serving in different places, keeping peace in hostile lands, living amidst danger and threat of harm, building hospitals, roads, and training foreign troops. As I drink my first cup of coffee today, I think of you all who do not have coffee, who are away from loved ones on your tour, and I appreciate your sacrifice.
To the veterans - many who have been forgotten or languish in V.A. hospitals or nursing homes, I hope you are honored today in some way. I hope you have visitors and parades and parties.

My gratitude goes to the families who are separated from the military men and women they love and long to see while they are on maneuvers, tours of duty or training. I feel for those who must pack and move to a new post...again. *Waving to my stepdaughter and her family as they contemplate packing everything to move cross country once more.*

Today I remember and appreciate the armed service folks. They give a lot, sometimes they give all. As I have the freedom to pack and travel to a writer's conference shortly, I know in my heart it is you who have secured my pursuits and made this land safe. Thank you. I am grateful every day.

Simple Gestures by Angie Ledbetter

During tough times or when I'm just down about something, the simplest gesture can lift me out of a blue funk.

Having a rough day in class with fifth graders in the throes of Spring Fever, one kind student came to me later and said, "Mrs. Ledbetter, I'm sorry our class was so rowdy," and gave me a hug. That sweet child makes me take extra care planning a class retreat instead of punish work. One good apple redeemed a barrel of bad ones.

Similar gestures which I try to "pass forward" are: one of my own kids saying thanks for a special dish I'd prepared for supper; another who appreciated that I attended a school function instead of visiting with friends; phone calls and emails asking about my sick mom. These acts are easy and free to perform, but leave a lasting feeling of goodness. Sometimes, even a smile or a wink can turn around a bad day. And the best thing about it is they make you feel great -- whether from the receiving or giving end.

There's a Gratitude Campaign website everyone should visit. It made such an impact on me, after I dried my tears I couldn't wait to meet up with a service person to let them know I appreciate their service and sacrifice. The site teaches a simple gesture we can use to express our thanks. I hope you visit and practice its message: www.gratitudecampaign.org

I know my stepdaughter, her husband and their three beautiful kids would love to see the gesture expressed the next time they are in the airport bringing him to board another overseas plane, or when they're just taking a family outing.

THANK YOU, service men and women, and your families. I appreciate you and your willingness to serve and defend!