Military Thanksgiving Greetings from Iraq

WCCO Radio: Military Thanksgiving Greetings

Recognize Even the Smallest of Blessings on Thanksgiving Day

2008’s string of holidays stretches out before us.

Bittersweet, yet again, for so many. Another season of reflection and light finds many military family members once more a long ways away from loved ones serving overseas.

I can’t help but think about them, how having that empty spot at the Thanksgiving table must dampen the intent of the holiday somewhat. While many of us at home are understandably worried these days about personal financial issues or greatly unnerved about the larger national economic crisis and all of the looming political change on the horizon, those in uniform continue their work. They also have their own worries. And for many deployed troops, the greatest source of anxiety is concern for those they leave behind while they’re called away to serve.

Let’s send them our good will and kind thoughts, and perhaps direct the same towards their loved ones right here at home with us, too. Even more, be grateful for each moment we have here in this world together…even the ones we may consider "the crumbs."

Minnesota troops stationed in Iraq say hello to their families back home during the Thanksgiving Holiday!  

Even in the face of difficulty, or amidst the trials of day-to-day life. Even if we’re momentarily separated — especially if we’re momentarily separated — let’s be thankful for what we have. Even in light of so many with so little, there is bounty to be found in the moments we persevere and extend ourselves to each other.

Thinking of you, friends, this Thanksgiving.

From WCCO Radio: Minnesota troops stationed in Iraq say hello to their families back home during the Thanksgiving holiday:

    Gathering Up Crumbs

    Be careful with the crumbs.
    Do not overlook them.

    Be careful with the crumbs;
    the little chances to love,

    the tiny gestures, the morsels
    that feed, the minims.

    Take care of the crumbs;
    a look, a laugh, a smile,

    a teardrop, an open hand. Take care
    of the crumbs. They are food also.

    Do not let them fall.
    Gather them. Cherish them.

    — Gunilla Norris, in Becoming Bread