My children live right next to the cemetary where this young man was layed to rest..and I guess half out of morbid curiosity and half out of paying respects I went to his grave site. It made me think that for all our posturing and talking about the war, people playing the role of pundit on any side of the topic, folks breaking down friendships, not speaking or posting to this board or that because of their nationalistic or patriotic viewpoints, we can all agree that those who lose their lives in millitary service at least deserve our respect and gratitude. Their families also deserve our compassion and respect as well. The two towns next to this cemetary came out in full force to send condolances and pay their respects. A week before I arrived, my 6 yr old was right out in front of the mile long procession with her kindergarten class carrying her flag all the way to his grave site. I think it is of some importance for teaching young ones not only the real gravity of war, but also how precious life is, which for many of us never happened. The lives of others could be flippantly passed of as worthless in the eyes of God regardless of who they were. Something I will never let happen in my family ever again. I also understand as well that my 6 yr was on CNN several times, which I unfortunately missed. Well, maybe this will make some reflect on their own actions and blathering on about the war to no real end other than to be "right", and maybe bring a fresh perspective not given by CNN or any other news source...It just isn't the same till you go see it for yourself.
Sincerely,
District Overbeer