Do you know this man? Do you recognize him?
He could be your grandfather, or your father, or your brother! Maybe he looks like your uncle or your cousin...!
When you see an older man like this gentleman, you can almost guarantee that he is a Veteran!
When was the last time that you paid a visit to who ever this old man reminds you of? When was the last time that you spent some time with them, just talking to them and letting them know you were thinking about them?
When was the last time you just walked up to him, gave him a hug, and told him "Thank you"? It doesn't take very long, and it could mean the world to this man!
There he sits, his best friend beside him with a look of love in his eyes! The dog knows what a great guy his owner is, without question!
See the Flag next to the old man? Notice the fondness and respect the old man has in his eyes as he looks at the Flag? You can bet that the Flag, and what it stands for, is never far from the thoughts and the heart of this proud individual!
Here in the next picture we can see a parade in Everytown, U.S.A. coming down the street. There may be a similar parade scheduled this up-coming holiday weekend in your hometown. Remember, it is Memorial Day weekend!
See that group of men in uniform leading the parade? That's called the Honor Guard! It's called that for a good reason...!
See what they are carrying? That's the American Flag, the Colors that represent your country! That's the Flag that represents what this old guy, and many others just like him, fought and bled and died for!
That's the reason that this old guy, bound to his wheel chair because he is probably unable to walk, is bravely trying to stand up as the Flag approaches!
His intent? To show his respect...!
Now why aren't the rest of the folks around there standing? Why are they still sitting on their butts when the Flag approaches? Why don't they stand with their hand over their hearts when the National Anthem is played?
I'll tell you why! NO RESPECT !! No respect for the things that are really important! For their elders, for their Flag, for their history, and for the men and women that made the ultimate sacrifices so that each and every day could be lived to the fullest, free from tyranny and oppression!
It seems to me that the very least all of these curb sitters could do...is Show some damn respect!
You want to know what the saddest part about this whole thing is? It's sad that anyone, ANYONE, should have to be reminded to do these things! Sad that the simple act of showing respect isn't taught by the schools, the parents, the elders...and if it is taught, it's even sadder that the idea doesn't come to mind automatically, without any prompting!
This Memorial Day, please remember to stand for the music, stand for the Honor Guard, stand for the Flag! In other words...do the right thing! Out of RESPECT...!
Now, my friends, let's get some coffee and sit outside for a bit!
