There is goodness in this world as I see it regularly...

[Lonely_Sojourner]

Approximately four months ago, I was working in the Pentagon one day (civilian) when my division received a tasking for volunteers needed to support existing military operations in Afghanistan. Being the only single guy in my office, I raised my hand. Having been in country for ~ three months, let me share I'm truly amazed at the level of support from strangers supporting the troops in country. My front office receives no less than 2-3 boxes a week from various people that have either lost loved ones in Afghanistan or had someone stationed here and still wants to show their support. One lady, in particular, sends 2 big boxes a month full of homemade cookies and other treats. Looking at what all she sends each month, I can't imagine the cost associated with such. My staff tells me she's been doing this for years as she lost her only son in Herat as this is how she copes. Since the DC/NoVA/MD area has a heavy MIL presence, I would ask if any of you know of someone that supports personnel in theater, just tell them "thank you" as their acts of kindness help tremendously. I see the looks in the eyes of my staff when they're calling home to talk to their kids or parents as you find yourself yearning for any normalcy as nothing here is normal.

One last comment - be thankful for you have as it could be gone in an instant. I know this all too well as I lost my wife of 16 years to cancer. You loved your spouse at some point; focus on each other's strengths and minimize each other's weaknesses. None of us are perfect and all of us are capable of forgiveness at some level...

Thank you and Merry Christmas to all,

L_S

PS - Before I get slammed and spammed, let me apologize as I'm sure there are better venues to share such; however, this is one of the few sites that I read with any degree of regularity. And no, I do not have a Facebook account for a variety of reasons.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for this. I expected something stupid and sappy and found something deeply moving, sad and profound. Merry Christmas to you too.

[Anonymous]

Wow...this is lovely.

[Anonymous]

Thanks for sharing. Nice way to start the day.