Appreciation

Several years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to Scotland, and to Gettysburg Penn., here in the U.S. I was struck by the courage and devotion shown by the people in these nations in particular situations. I have watched the films,and read books about Gettysburg and Braveheart many times and never fail to marvel at the selfless attitude displayed by these soldiers. Also apparent is that these men have decided running away is not an option and the fear of death has been conquered. It is also apparent that they believe in the common goal of the nation and their fellowman more than what they can gain for themselves as individuals. I feel that is the way it should be in our marriages and families as well. Running should not be an option, and the fear of dying to ourselves needs to conquered. When we get married we say that the 2 become as one, and the only way to do that is to lay down your life to your mate. Do we really understand what we are saying when we recite our vows. Do we really mean it. In the film Gettysburg, Colonel Chamberlain told the men of the 2nd Maine that men fight for all kinds of reasons,but in the end they are fighting for each other. Oh that men and women, but especially men would realize that

in the end, we are fighting for each other and our families. A young boy once looked admiringly at a gunslinger and made the statement that his father would never do that and was a coward. The gunslinger paddled the boys behind and told him that his father was the bravest man he ever knew.Why? asked the boy. Because he stayed with his wife and family, got up everyday, went to the fields,and worked as hard as he could and layed down his life for the good of the family. True courage and devotion. We could use a little more of that today.