Lots of people will be spending some time in airports, shopping malls, and other public places during the Christmas and New Years season.  In all public places, you are apt to encounter uniformed members of the United States military.  Many of them will be traveling home for Christmas, taking a short break from duty stations, near and far, that keep them from their family, friends, and loved ones.  Many of them have pledged to give their very lives to protect and defend the things they believe in.

Regardless of what we think of the war, of the politicians that started it, of the progress of the effort, or the utility of war, we need to remember that we have brave soldiers, pilots, sailors, and marines who pledge to do a job so you and I don’t have to do it.  These Americans are bringing peace and dignity to people that are entitled to it.  They are protecting our country from a danger that all people in the free world recognize.  They are serving YOU and me.  Right or wrong, these guys and girls put their lives at risk to protect a concept, one that says that we are all endowed by our creator with certain inalienable rights, including the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.  It’s not just Americans that are so endowed; it is all people.

There is a really neat organization called  The Gratitude Campaign  that is showing us a way to say “thank you” for the efforts of these brave souls.  By giving a simple sign, you can say “thank you from the bottom of my heart” to those that really need to know that they don’t do what they do in vain.  When you give this sign, you aren’t agreeing with the policy, your aren’t approving of the activity.  You are simply acknowledging brave and self-less Americans, giving of themselves to serve you.

I encourage you to view the video below produced by The Gratitude Campaign and learn how you can say “thank you” without attracting attention, without feeling awkward, and without compromising your personal views.  When you give the sign, it is a good feeling for you and the recipient.  In this joyful season, give a real servant a smile by giving them a sign.

Phil Ellis

Discount Scuba Gear at DiveSports.com