A day for honor and thanks

CINDY TRANE CHRISTESON

“How often we look upon God as our last and feeblest resource! We go

to him because we have nowhere else to go. And then we learn that the

storms of life have driven us, not upon the rocks, but into the

desired haven.”

-- GEORGE MACDONALD

This column is a brief look back at Veteran’s Day, which we all

experienced or enjoyed in some way.

I am not a war veteran, but I know many, including my father,

father-in-law and other family members, and I wanted to give credit

where credit is due. Believe me, anyone who fought for his or her

country deserves not only acknowledgment and heartfelt gratitude, but

accolades, and the more, the better.

I read some of the history of Veterans Day and was moved by the

magnitude of lives given to preserve the freedom of this country. I

hope all veterans felt honored, appreciated and valued last Tuesday.

I also hope that men and women who are serving overseas feel that way

as well. I cannot imagine what it is like to fight in battle, but I’m

deeply thankful for all those who did and those who are willing to do

so today.

I remember times when my grandfather, whom we called Pop, spoke

about his experiences in the Navy in World War II. Pop weathered many

weather storms in the North Atlantic during the war. Whenever he

shared stories, we all listened.

I loved a story about his cap. Pop was aboard a merchant ship in a

convoy headed toward his next assignment. The merchant ship was

torpedoed near Iceland. Fortunately, there was time for all aboard to

get into lifeboats, and after several hours, they were rescued.

Three years after the war, Pop received a package from Iceland. An

Icelandic fisherman had found the abandoned lifeboat with Pop’s

officer’s cap still in it, its identification still legible. It

became one of Pop’s prized possessions.

I’ve been in church services when all the veterans or relatives of

those who served were asked to stand. There was a hushed reverence in

the room, along with smiles and tears as we applauded them. I was

glad to read about many services and prayer times at schools,

churches and other community locations this Veterans Day.

Anyone who fought for our freedom knows that the day is far more

significant than just a day when government offices are closed. I was

part of a group who prayed, not only for veterans, but also for

family and friends of those who served. We all were choked up as we

bowed our heads.

Pop had many wonderful stories, not only about the war, but about

his life. I’m sure that most veterans do. We need to take the time to

listen when people want to share about their lives. We’ve all

weathered various kinds of storms, some on battlefields and others at

home. Pop’s eyes used to sparkle and he seemed honored when we

gathered around to hear him reminisce.

I realize that God must also be honored when we take time to be

quiet and listen to him. He is quick to come to our aid with

unconditional love and unexplainable peace when we call upon Him

during whatever kind of storm we face.

And you can quote me on that.

* CINDY TRANE CHRISTESON is a Newport Beach resident who speaks

frequently to parenting groups. She may be reached via e-mail at

[email protected] or through the mail at 537 Newport Center Drive,

Suite 505, Newport Beach, CA 92660.