Enough...

There is a 4+ year old boy on my mind this Veteran's day. He happens to be my grandson. I am unlikely to be around when he reaches the age of 18, so I want to make my wishes for him known now. I wish for him a world of peace. I wish for him to not have to pick up a fire arm unless he chooses to target shoot. I wish for him a time of no wars and a time with none of our armies on foreign soil. I wish him the gift of world peace.

I was born just before the attack on Pearl Harbor and have never known a time without wars. I have seen war and it ain't pretty. There are, I can tell you, better ways to gather memories.

I know others who have had the same experiences including Bill, next door, and my mentor JB. I know that look when I face another man who has served, especially in 'Nam and that teary gaze we share. I know the monuments in Washington D.C. and The Wall I can never approach without crying. I know, or knew, some of the men listed there.

I know what I know, and I don't want my grandson to know of such things. Yes, I want him to know our history and what has gone on, but I want it to serve as a lesson to him how terribly wrong things can go.

I appreciate the "thank you" comments that have been coming my way. I don't know about other vets but, for me, a smile and a knowing nod would be plenty of thanks. Then, pray for peace for my grandson.

Paddle safe...
DS