by Red Dog [ posted: 24.Dec.2009 01:23 PM ] [dura-link][Print]
It is precisely 11:58AM here (PST) in response to hoghntr's Noel (I presume about 3 hrs after his entry) When I arose at 05:00, my first thoughts were of friends travelling in Australia who are in a time zone 19 hours ahead of me. It struck me that it was just turning Xmas morning where they were and how the spirit of Xmas to me means Peace on Earth...Goodwill to all. Yesterday another former colleague saluted me with Season's Greetings. He had just returned from a contractual mission to Ethiopia and Jordan. Like me he is retired but our Gov't hired him for an International mission. Succinctly, I'd like to acknowledge the excellent work being done by men and women of our neighbouring nations and to convey to them the heartfelt gratitude of someone that understands the sacrifices being made.
When one gets older there is ample time to reflect back and express gratitude to those that stand in harms way to protect those freedoms. There was a moment a little more than a month ago while hunting White Tail I was somewhat distracted by feelings of gratitude for these men and women when a buck's arrival brought me back.
Happy Holidays