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November 02, 2005
Homecoming
It's nice to be reminded sometimes that there's more to life than the small troubles that I often dwell on.
I've been travelling today on business, and my heart was warmed by a roadside crowd that had gathered along Hwy 11E as I rolled into Greeneville, TN. For a couple of miles, there were cars lining the shoulder of the road. Colorful signs were erected. Smiling faces and homemade T-shirts were seen in abundance. An older woman coaxed the honking of passing cars with exuberance, while youngsters paced with a glad anticipation. Celebration was in the air.
The 278th Regimental Combat Team was coming home, and friends and family were putting out the welcome mat.
Later, as I enjoyed my dinner at Fatz Cafe, I got to observe the community's joy on a more personal level. One of the newly arrived soldiers was being treated to dinner by a group of a dozen or so people who were obviously very thankful that he made it back safely. It was touching to see newcomers to the party rush over to him and give a long, warm embrace. Regardless of which side one is on in the Iraq debate, it's undoubtedly a happy ending to have a soldier come home to his family.
A term from my navy days seems appropriate: Bravo Zulu, Rob. And Bravo Zulu to the rest of the 278th. Welcome home.
| By newcity | 09:24 PM
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Comments
I am glad to see you use this format to express your feelings regarding the changes that are occurring in your life at this time. All will get better. People grow and one monkey does not stop a show. Just don't give away the farm. Continue to hone your skills with the pen and who knows where it will take you. Did someone say Pulitzer? As coach Gary Gaines, Billy Bob Thornton, of the Permian High Panthers said in "Friday Night Lights", "Stay Perfect".
Posted by: SNAKEDOCTOR at November 3, 2005 08:17 AM
Pulitzer? I don't know about that. But then again, who does? I just hope doing this will help me figure stuff out. But it seems that the more I figure out, the more I don't know anything. It's just like what Solomon said: in much wisdom is much grief, in much knowledge is great sorrow. Of course, if you ask some people, they'd tell you I should be one happy camper! I may never figure life out, but I believe it will get better. Thanks for the encouragement. I'll hold on to as much of the farm as possible, and be as perfect as I can. So, don't worry. I'll remember.
Posted by: Jon (newcity) at November 3, 2005 06:31 PM
