Better Late Than Never

I realize that the fourth of July has already come and gone but I couldnt let the week end without sharing a poignant story with you, my devoted reader. If there are more than one of you out there, that is a miracle in and of itself, but I digress.

The fam and I went on a camping trip about two weeks ago, if you remember, and on our way home we passed through several small towns. As we neared one of these towns we noticed a lot of people on both sides of the highway, sitting in lawn chairs, waving little american flags. When we came to the city limits, we saw two men in cherry pickers hanging a banner over the highway. We also noticed several hand made signs mentioning a family in need of prayers and support. We didn't realize they were related until we drove into town and saw the streets lined with fire trucks, police cars, ambulances and the rest of the community. It looked to us like a grand parade was coming through town so we were curious to know what was happening. Mr. D pulled over to the side of the road and I hoped out of the van to ask one of the firemen what they were preparing for. His answer brought tears to my eyes.

He told me that one of the young men from their town had been killed in Iraq and the community was showing their support and gratitude, for him and his family's sacrifice, by escorting him to his final resting place. I tear up just thinking about it. I then thanked the fireman for being a part of the most perfect example I have ever seen of "mourning with those that mourn and comforting those who stand in need of comfort." (Mosiah 18:8-9)

While it was a small town, I'm sure that not all of those present knew the family personally but that didn't keep them from honoring that soldier. I don't know the name of that town but I will always be grateful for their example.

Happy Independance Day.