so this blog post isnt gonna be funny. but should still be written.
on today, 11/11/11, i stop to remember those who have bravely fought for our country - who defend the ideals we as stupid, lazy, greedy americans take for granted; who put their lives on the line for something they believe in. i am grateful with an almost guilty gratitude for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice; prayerful for the families of those military who don't return. to every veteran who has served our country - regardless of tour length, regardless of duty, i wholeheartedly thank you for your service!
today also marks the 3 year anniversary of my great-uncle gene's death. as a veteran, it's rather fitting that veterans day should fall on a day we remember him. uncle gene was the epitome of being a man. society has definitely mangled that word, so i guess you could call him an "old school" man - which is the best kind of man to be! he was open, honest, genuine, kind, strong but gentle, caring, thoughtful, handy with tools, rode a motorcycle, treated his wife and children with respect and dignity, enjoyed the outdoors, etc. i could continue naming things all day, but i think you're starting to get the picture. he was strong physically and had an even stronger spirit. never do i remember hearing him raise his voice when i was around, but at the same time, you knew just by being around him that he wouldn't put up with nonsense and if he asked you to do something, there was a good reason for it. he knew his duties as a pastor, father, chaplain, and husband and didn't shy away from those duties. it's really difficult to describe unless you've met him, but he made it seem like you mattered; if you were speaking, he was listening - not just hearing, but listening. like you were worth his time. he always always looked you in the eye, and you always knew you had him as a friend and confidant in him - no matter you background, status, political affiliation, gender, race, ethnicity, etc. he had your back. end of story. when he told stories, you knew they were going to be good. if there was only one man i could model my life after (besides Jesus), it would be him. he was the kind of man that could make anybody feel welcomed and appreciated; and he was always there for you - no matter what. and the vast majority of his time was spent serving his community and family - he was pastor of two churches AND the chaplain for the fire department.
so i think this is about the best i can describe him to you...so im gonna leave it at this, but remember to remember those veterans who have served us, and if you get the chance, pray for that side of my family.
