THANKSGIVING PRAYER FOR OUR SOLDIERS
Centennial, Colorado, United States of America (Free-Press-Release.com) November 25, 2010 -- Today we gather around the dinner table with family and friends to share good food, warm laughter, and the happy memories of Thanksgivings past. But for many families, whose loved ones serve in the Armed Forces, this year's Thanksgiving celebration will not be complete. A familiar voice will not be heard and a chair at the table will remain empty because, they have someone far from home serving our country.
Today also, members of the Army, Marines, Navy, Air Force and Coast Guard (men and women, Active Duty, Reserve and National Guard alike) will gather in mess halls or in tents across the globe as friends and comrades to enjoy the traditional Thanksgiving meal. So, as those of us who are blessed to be with our families celebrate and give thanks, let us remember in our prayers the homes that have an empty chair at the table and also offer a special prayer of thanksgiving and ask God’s Blessings for the brave men and women of our Armed Forces, whose service and sacrifice will, we further pray, make the world a better and safer place. And a very special prayer dear God, for those homes that have an empty chair that will forever remain vacant and for those servicemen and women who have come back to us, may their sacrifice not have been in vain.
THANKSGIVING PRAYER Oh God, when I have food, help me remember the hungry. When I have a home, help me remember the homeless. When I am with friends and family who love me, help me remember those who are friendless and shunned. And remembering, help me destroy my complacency, move my heart and reach out by word and deed to those who cry out for what we take for granted.
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Every American owes a debt to those who serve their country. It is a debt that cannot be repaid by waving a flag or slapping a magnetic sticker on their car. Those men and women who took time out of their lives to protect and defend the constitution of the United States deserve more. Today is a good day to recognize that obligation and resolve to do something to even the score.
Maybe, for you, writing a check makes things simple. So many excellent programs could really use your help. Fisher House, the Wounded Warrior Project, and Operation Homefront are just three of many. You can find out more about them on the internet. If you operate a business, think about what your company can do to demonstrate your appreciation to the men and women of the armed forces. Any special consideration you give would earn you the respect of all who have served. It is the right thing to do and now is the time to do it.
For most Americans the most rewarding contribution is a donation of time. Make yourself a promise to visit a veteran’s hospital for a few hours on your day off. You will come away richer for the experience. Or call any of the non-profit military support organizations and ask how you can volunteer. There are hundreds of worthy causes to choose from. Make this Holiday Season a special one. Honor America’s veterans with more than just words. Get involved. Our entire country will be better off when you do.
About the Author: Lieutenant Colonel Kevin T. K. Sullivan (retired) served 20 years with the United States Army. He is the founder and president of Leading Points Corporation, a company that assists businesses in marketing to military personnel and in the design of Military Appreciation Programs. Write him at Sullivan@leadingpoints.com.