Wiser Friends

I know my last post was about avoiding cliches, and a military post on Memorial Day is likely just that, but I would like to share this little story with you. This past Wednesday night, I was at my church's Wednesday night supper before the services that they hold that evening. I found myself serving the drinks. Because of this position, I was able to talk to all the people who came through the line. In my home church there are a handful of people that truly stick out. I will not say they are the older people but that they are the wiser people. :) So one of my particularly wise friends came through the line and I always make a point to speak to him when I see him. Another wise gentleman and I had just finished speaking about his service in the military back during Korea and Vietnam. So I called the man by name "Were you in the military?" Then, something happened that I will not forget for a long time. His eyes glassed over and his face created a strange expression I couldn't attempt to explain. It was almost a smile. He paused obviously to review the onslaught of memories that seemed to be rushing into his head. "Oh yes, Miss Jessica." he smiled and paused again. "I was an Infantryman in the Second World War!" His back stood straighter and it was like he was preparing for a salute. Not as handy with my military knowledge as I ought to be I replied, "So you were in the Army?" "Yes ma'am Miss Jessica," was the happy reply. He went on to tell me that he was one of the distraught young men that were upset that they were too young to "join up" when the war started. He joined as soon as he could which was two years before the war ended. I hated it when the drink line had moved far enough that we could not talk anymore. Having known this man for the past four years that I have lived in Metter, I have overheard many of his accomplishments in life. He is never one to boast but I realized when he reacted so to my question that he had some great adventures in his life. At eighty six years old, he can honestly look back and know that he had lived life to the fullest. Sure there were probably a few things that he regrets, but if I could accomplish some of the adventures that he has in his life, then I know I would have a lifetime of stories to tell my grandchildren. I respect this man a lot because of the maturity and humility that he exhibits so well, but also because he is always in a joyful mood. So many of the wiser people of the world are often known for their slightly negative outlook to the world, but this man despite the hardships that are bound to come within a lifespan of eighty six years he still remains faithful and joyful.
It is a hard choice to pick between little kids and babies and then my wiser friends. I not only love simply acting the fool and entertaining the kids or being all nurturing to the babies but also I love talking to the wise people and listening and learning from their life. But I hope that when I reach the wiser years of my life, that I can have the joy and perspective with life that will cause some young whippersnapper to look up to me and say surely it is because of her relationship with God!
God Bless Our Soldiers and Veterans!