They Also Serve...

   A couple of days back we were in the National Cemetery in Chattanooga for the burial of one of our dear friends. When I stood surrounded by all of those similar grave markers, I could not help but to feel a surge of patriotism, not only for the thousands of veterans who are interred there, but for their spouses, who are also there.

   Looking on those stones, planted in rows, seemingly marching up that hill and across the landscape, I think of all the sacrifices made by military personnel and their families, especially the wives of the men who served.

   I think of another monument I saw a few days earlier on the grounds of the courthouse in Newton County, Covington, GA. Although the sentiment revolves around the women of the South in the Civil War, it could easily apply to any conflict.

   "While this monument is erected in memory of confederate soldiers and the sacred cause for which they contended, it is also intended to commemorate the noble women whose peerless patriotism and sublime lives of heroic and self-sacrificing service enhanced the holiness of that cause and prolonged the struggle for its supremacy, by inspiring its champions with increased ardor, enthusiasm and gallantry in their contest."

   So as we celebrate the 4th of July this coming Friday, and think about our Founding Fathers, let's not forget the power behind the throne either.

   In our homes as well as our country.

   From John Milton's poem:

   "When I consider how my light is spent 
Ere half my days in this dark world and wide, 
And that one Talent which is death to hide 
Lodged with me useless, though my soul more bent 
To serve therewith my Maker, and present 
My true account, lest He returning chide, 
"Doth God exact day-labour, light denied?" 
I fondly ask. But Patience, to prevent 
That murmur, soon replies, "God doth not need 
Either man's work or his own gifts. Who best 
Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best. His state 
Is kingly: thousands at his bidding speed, 
And post o'er land and ocean without rest; 
They also serve who only stand and wait." 

   Thank You