The Military Spirit

My (J) school semester is almost over. There's just one assignment left (the one I should be finishing right now). But anyway, this is a post I've wanted to write for a while.

There are two things you can count on when visiting a military town. First of all you will see nice cars. The neighbors across the street from my brother have five expensive cars for two drivers. There is a Corvette, a Viper, a Mercedes sedan, an original Hummer, and a Chevy dually pickup truck (not to mention a nice car trailer). I often see many BMWs, Mustangs, and other fast cars. Recently I've begun to see many more motorcycles too.

The other thing you can count on experiencing is the Military Spirit. This is not a ghost or anything like the Holy Spirit, but it is real. When we go visit my brother, we often end up spending time with other soldiers. These soldiers are always welcoming and generous. They invite us over to cookouts. They offer us drinks when we visit their houses. They make us feel at home. I believe their way of interacting with people comes from their military lifestyle. They and their families practice sacrificing their own needs daily. They serve their country. They serve to protect America. They serve to protect those who cannot protect themselves. They understand the community is stronger when people rely on each other rather than being completely independent. The military spirit also involves living life to the fullest. They are aware that they have a dangerous job. They know their next mission could be their last. They work hard and play hard. They spend time enjoying the comforts of home because many of them know it's only a matter of time before they get deployed again.

So as you sit there at your computer and read this post, I want you to do two things. First pray for their safety. Pray for them to come home to their families. Pray they can communicate with loved ones. Second say thanks to a soldier or veteran you know. I know today is not Memorial Day or Veteran's Day, but do it any way. Let them know you appreciate their being on the front lines. Send them an e-card or care package. Buy them a meal. Write an encouraging letter. Babysit their kids so they can have a date night. Just do something.