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The Fireman's Prayer
Author Unknown
When I'm called to duty, God, wherever flames may be, give me the strength to save some life, whatever age it be .

Help me embrace a little child before its too late. Or save an older person from the horror of that fate.

Enable me to be alert and hear the weakest shout. And quickly and efficiently to put the fire out.

I want to fill my calling and to give the best in me to guard my every neighbor and protect their property.

And if according to your will I lose my life, please bless with your protective hand my children and my wife.

Our Military
The average age of the military man is 19 years. He is a short haired, tight-muscled kid who, under normal circumstances is considered by society as half man, half boy. Not yet dry behind the ears, not old enough to buy a beer, but old enough to die for his country. He never really cared much for work and he would rather wax his own car than wash his father's; but he has never collected unemployment either.

He's a recent High School graduate; he was probably an average student, pursued some form of sport activities, drives a ten year old jalopy, and has a steady girlfriend that either broke up with him when he left, or swears to be waiting when he returns from half a world away. He listens to rock and roll or hip-hop or rap or jazz or swing and 155mm howitzer. He is 10 or 15 pounds lighter now than when he was at home because he is working or fighting from before dawn to well after dusk.

He has trouble spelling, thus letter writing is a pain for him, but he can field strip a rifle in 30 seconds and reassemble it in less time in the dark. He can recite to you the nomenclature of a machine gun or grenade launcher and use either one effectively if he must. He digs foxholes and latrines and can apply first aid like a professional. He can march until he is told to stop or stop until he is told to march.

He obeys orders instantly and without hesitation, but he is not without spirit or individual dignity. He is self-sufficient. He has two sets of fatigues: he washes one and wears the other. He keeps his canteens full and his feet dry. He sometimes forgets to brush his teeth, but never to clean his rifle. He can cook his own meals, mend his own clothes, and fix his own hurts. If you're thirsty, he'll share his water with you; if you are hungry, his food.

He'll even split his ammunition with you in the midst of battle when you run low. He has learned to use his hands like weapons and weapons like they were his hands. He can save your life - or take it, because that is his job. He will often do twice the work of a civilian, draw half the pay and still find ironic humor in it all. He has seen more suffering and death then he should have in his short lifetime.

He has stood atop mountains of dead bodies, and helped to create them.He has wept in public and in private, for friends who have fallen in combat and is unashamed. He feels every note of the National Anthem vibrate through his body while at rigid attention, while tempering the burning desire to 'square-away' those around him who haven't bothered to stand, remove their hat, or even stop talking.

In an odd twist, day in and day out, far from home, he defends their right to be disrespectful. Just as did his Father, Grandfather, and Great-grandfather, he is paying the price for our freedom. Beardless or not, he is not a boy. He is the American Fighting Man and Woman that has kept this country free for over 200 years. They have asked nothing in return, except our friendship and understanding.

Remember them, always, for they have earned our respect and admiration with their blood. And now we even have women over there in danger, doing their part in this tradition of going to War when our nation calls us to do so.

And if according to your will I lose my life, please bless with your protective hand my children and my wife.

Old Timer
An 80-year-old man went to the doctor for a checkup and the doctor was amazed at what good shape the guy was in. The doctor asked, "To what do you attribute your good health"?

The old timer said, "I'm a golfer and that's why I'm in such good shape. I'm up well before daylight and out golfing up and down the fairways."

The doctor said, "Well, I'm sure that helps, but there's got to be more to it. How old was your father when he died"?

The old timer asked, "Who said my father's dead?"

The doctor said, "You mean you're 80 years old and your father is still alive? How old is he?"

The old timer said, "He's 100 years old and, in fact, he golfed with me this morning. That's why he's still alive, he's a golfer."

The doctor said, "Well, that's great, but I'm sure there's more to it. How about your grandfather? How old was he when he died?"

The old timer said, "Who said my grandpa's dead?"

The doctor said, "You mean you're 80 years old and your grandfather's still living! How old is he?" The old timer said, "He's 118 years old."

The doctor was getting frustrated at this point and said, "I guess he went golfing with you this morning too?"

The old timer said, "No, grandpa couldn't go this morning, because he got married."

The doctor said in amazement, "Got married! Why would a 118-year-old guy want to get married"?

The old timer shot back, "Who said he wanted to?"

The Best Day
Today, when I awoke, I suddenly realized that this is the best day of my life, ever There were times when I wondered if I would make it to today; but I did! And because I did I'm going to celebrate! Today, I'm going to celebrate what an unbelievable life I have had so far: the accomplishments, the many blessings, and, yes, even the hardships because they have served to make me stronger.

I will go through this day with my head held high and a happy heart. I will marvel at God's seemingly simple gifts:

The morning dew, The sun, The clouds, The trees, The flowers, The birds.

Today, none of these miraculous creations will escape my notice. Today, I will share my excitement for life with other people. I'll make someone smile. I'll go out of my way to perform an unexpected act of kindness for someone I don't even know. Today, I'll give a sincere compliment to someone who seems down. I'll tell a child how special he is, and I'll tell someone I love just how deeply I care for them and how much they mean to me.

Today is the day I quit worrying about what I don't have and start being grateful for all the wonderful things God has already given me. I'll remember that to worry is just a waste of time because my faith in God and his Divine Plan ensures everything will be just fine.

And tonight, before I go to bed, I'll go outside and raise my eyes to the heavens. I will stand in awe at the beauty of the stars and the moon, and I will praise God for these magnificent treasures.

As the day ends and I lay my head down on my pillow, I will thank the Almighty for the best day of my life. And I will sleep the sleep of a contented child, Excited with expectation because I know tomorrow is going to be THE BEST DAY of my life, ever!

Grounds for Divorce
A judge was interviewing a woman regarding her pending divorce, and asked, "What are the grounds for your divorce?"

She replied, "About four acres and a nice little home in the middle of the property with a stream running by."

"No," he said, "I mean what is the foundation of this case?" "It is made of concrete, brick and mortar," she responded.

"I mean," he continued, "What are your relations like?" "I have an aunt and uncle living here in town, and so do my husband's parents."

He said, "Do you have a real grudge?" "No," she replied, "We have a two-car carport and have never really needed one."

"Please. . ." he tried again, "is there any infidelity in your marriage?" "Yes, both my son and daughter have stereo sets. We don't necessarily like the music, but the answer to your question is yes."

"Ma'am, does your husband ever beat you up?" "Yes," she responded, "about twice a week he gets up earlier than I do."

Finally, in frustration, the judge asked, "Lady, why do you want a divorce?"

"Oh, I don't want a divorce," she replied. "I've never wanted a divorce. My husband does. He says he can't communicate with me !!

Here's To America's Truckers
I've always known it. Country music is filled with songs about truckers. '"Truck Drivin’ Sonofagun" ""Six Days on the Road" ""White Line Fever", ","Phantom 309", ","Looking at the World Through a Windshield" and "Eighteen Wheels and a Dozen Roses'" are just a few of several hundred tribute songs to the breed of men and women who make their living on this country's roadways.

Truckers, the serious ones, spend most of their lives keeping a 60,000 to 80,000 pound rig between the white lines, getting from point A to point B by the promised delivery time. They kiss their families goodbye, crawl behind the wheel of one of those monster rigs, and head for one of the coasts. They'll not come home again in two or three weeks. After one or two days home, they're off again.

Some have lost their families because of too many days away and too many missed Little League games. They typically don't belong to the Rotary Club or PTA or do any of the things we consider "normal" because they have a run to make and a load that has to be there on time. They sleep in those cabs and Motel 6's across the country when they do sleep. But sleep is secondary to getting to the next loading dock on time.

Truckers love truck-stop food, Merle Haggard, CB's with echo and linear amps, clean and shiny rigs, attractive and spunky truck-stop waitresses, the latest Rand McNally map book, exit guides with big print, and holding court with their gear pounding buddies at a Flying J truck stop.

They don't care much for rough right-hand lanes (after all, they pay enough taxes to keep them in good repair), weigh stations, smokies that lie in wait behind trees, company dispatchers, bad diesel, tough chicken fried steak, Department of Transportation idiosyncrasies, liberal politicians, or slow running RVs. But, they are, in my opinion, the best drivers on the road. In general, they are the most courteous and most skilled vehicle operators on any interstate. Pass one and watch him blink his lights when it's safe to return to the right lane. Observe a car broken down along the highway, and if there's not a trucker parked behind to help, there will be soon. A lane change is always telegraphed by a signal. There are a few exceptions, I suppose, but you rarely see one exceeding the speed limit.

The CB is a trucker's pipeline to sanity. Engage one in conversation on channel 19 and you'll find out anything you want to know about the weather ahead, the best fuel stop, the road repairs and where the next rest stop is. That little handheld microphone is his version of the Internet, a cocktail party or a visit with a therapist.

Over the airwaves at 65 miles and hour he can gripe, comment, joke, get advice and kibitz with his own kind. Listen awhile and you'll hear the heart and soul of the last American Cowboy. You'll hear trucker complaints, their troubles with the company, the bank and their relatives. . .

You'll hear their musings about the traffic they encounter, their funny stories and their thoughts about the government. And you'll hear it in an accent that can only be described as "trucker-ese". It's a combination of a Southern and Western drawl unique to truckers, no matter where they come from.

An acquaintance of mine was griping about the number of trucks on the interstate the other day, and I thought to myself that without truckers, there wouldn't be any interstate. Furthermore, a trucker hauled in most of the goods my friend eats, most of the clothes he wears, and most of the goods that he depends on. All because of a diesel-smellin', ballcap-wearin', CB talkin', rig-runnin', smokey-dodgin', tax-payin', flag-wearin' trucker.

So here's to 'em. May their engines run smooth, their hauls be short, their weights be legal, and may we remember that the wheels of the economy that we depend on totally.

If
Rudyard Kipling
If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too:
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim,
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same:.
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build'em up with worn-out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings,
And never breathe a word about your loss:
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with Kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much:
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

A Letter From A Hillbilly
Dear Billy joe Bob,

I'm writting this slow because I know you can't read fast. We don't live where we did when you left home. Your Pa read in the newspaper that most accidents happen within 20 minutes of your home, so we moved. I won't be able to send you the address because the last family that lived here took the house numbers when they moved so they wouldn't have to change their address.

This place is really nice. I even has a washing machine. I'm not sure it works so well, though, Last week I put a load of clothes in and pulled the chain, we haven't seen it since.

The weather isn't bad here. It only rained twice last week; the first time for three days and the second time for four days.

About that coat you wanted me to send; your Uncle Bubba said it would be too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.

Bubba locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were really worried because it took him two hours to get me and your father out.

Your sister had a baby this morning, but I haven't found out what it is yet so I don't know if you are an aunt or uncle. The baby looks just like your brother.

Uncle Bobby Ray fell into a whiskey vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated; he burned for three days.

Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pickup truck. Butch was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were in the back, they drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down.

Your Favorite Aunt

Jenny Sue Ellie

A Loser Texas Style
A Texas Highway Patrolman pulled a car over and told the driver that because he had been wearing his seat belt, he had just won $5,000 in the statewide safety competition.

"What are you going to do with the money?" asked the Highway Patrolman. "Well, I guess I'm going to get a driver's license," he answered.

"Oh, don't listen to him," yelled a woman in the passenger seat. "He's a smart alec when he's drunk."

This woke up the guy in the back-seat, who took one look at the cop and moaned, "I knew we wouldn't get far in a stolen car."

At that moment, there was a knock from the trunk and a voice said, in Spanish, "Are we over the border yet?"

And...how's your day been so far?

Class
CLASS NEVER RUNS SCARED. IT IS SURE FOOTED AND CONFIDENT. IT CAN HANDLE WHATEVER COMES ALONG.
CLASS HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR. IT KNOWS THAT A GOOD LAUGH IS THE BEST LUBRICANT FOR OILING THE MACHINERY OF HUMAN RELATIONS.
CLASS NEVER MAKES EXCUSES. IT TAKES IT LUMPS AND LEARS FROM PAST MISTAKES.
CLASS KNOWS THAT GOOD MANNERS ARE NOTHING MORE THAN A SERIES PETTY SACRIFICES.
CLASS BESPEAKS ARISTOCRACY, IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH MONEY. SOME EXTREMELY WEALTHY PEOPLE HAVE NO CLASS AT ALL; WHILE OTHERS WHO STRUGGLE ARE LOADED WITH IT.
CLASS IS REAL. YOU CAN'T FAKE IT.
THE PERSON WITH CLASS MAKES EVERYONE FEEL COMFORTABLE, BECAUSE THEY ARE COMFORTABLE WITH THEMSELVES.
IF YOU HAVE CLASS, YOU'VE GOT IT MADE. IF YOU DON'T HAVE CLASS, NO MATTER WHAT ELSE YOU HAVE....."IT DOESN'T MAKE ANY DIFFERENCE."

Dad's Sayings
No, we're not there yet.

Were you raised in a barn? Close the door.

Coffee will stunt your growth.

Don't ask me, ask your mother.

Eat it! It will grow hair on your chest!

You didn't beat me. I let you win.

A little dirt never hurt anyone--just wipe it off..

"Hey" is for horses.

This will hurt me a lot more than it hurts you.

You're gonna like it, whether you like it or not!

Turn off those lights. Do you think I am made of money?

That's the best way I know to put out an eye!

You want something to do? I'll give you something to do.

I'm not sleeping, I was watching that channel.

I don't care what other people are doing!

I'm not everybody elses father!

When I was your age. I had to walk to school in 10 feet of snow up hill both ways!

If I catch you doing that one more time, I'll...

If ifs and buts were candy and nuts then we'd all have a merry Christmas.

Don't make me stop the car! Enough is enough!

If Tomorrow Starts Without Me
"If tomorrow starts without me, and I'm not there to see.
If the sun should rise and find your eyes all filled with tears for me;

I wish so much you wouldn't cry the way you did today.
While thinking of the many things, we didn't get to say.

I know how much you love me, as much as I love you.
And each time that you think of me, I know you'll miss me too.
But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand.
That an angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand.
And said my place was ready, in heaven far above.
And that I'd have to leave behind all those I dearly love.
But as I turned to walk away - A tear fell from my eye.
For all my life, I'd always thought, I didn't want to die.

I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do.
It seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you.
I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad.
I thought of all that we shared, and all the fun we had.
If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while,I'd say good-bye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized, that this could never be,for emptiness and memories, would take the place of me.
And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow.
I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through heaven's gates, I felt so much at home.
When God looked down and smiled at me, From His great golden throne.
He said, "This is eternity, and all I've promised you."
Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew.

I promise no tomorrow. But today will always last,and since each days the same way, there's no longing for the past.
You have been so faithful, so trusting and so true.Though there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn't do.

But you have been forgiven, and now at last you're free.
So won't you come and take my hand, and share my life with me?
So when tomorrow starts without me, don't think we're far apart.
For every time you think of me, I'm right here, in your heart".

Moments In Life
There are moments in life when you miss someone so much that you just want to pick them from your dreams and hug them for real!

When the door of happiness closes, another opens; but often times we look so long at the closed door that we don't see the one, which has been opened for us.

Don't go for looks; they can deceive. Don't go for wealth; even that fades away. Go for someone who makes you smile, because it takes only a smile to make a dark day seem bright. Find the one that makes your heart smile.

Dream what you want to dream; go where you want to go; be what you want to be, because you have only one life and one chance to do all the things you want to do.

May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy.

The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way.

The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches.

When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying.

Too Old To Pick
1. Instead of a fifth member, your band wants to spring for a roadie.

2. You need your glasses to see your amp settings.

3. It becomes more important to find a place onstage for your box fan, than your amp.

4. You refuse to play out of tune.

5. Your stage clothes make you look like George Burns out for a round of golf.

6. Your fans have left by 10:30 p.m.

7. All you want from groupies is a foot massage.

8. Your after show party is at the International House of Pancakes.

9. You love taking the elevator because you can sing along to most of your play list.

10. You hire band members for their values instead of their talent.

11. You've lost the directions to the gig.

12. You've thrown out your back jumping off the stage.

13. You're thrilled to have New Year's Eve off.

14. The waitress is older than you.

15. You stop the set because your bottle of Ibuprofen fell behind the speakers.

16. Most of your crowd just sways in their seats.

17. You find your drink tokens from last month's gig in your guitar case.

18. You no longer use a tip jar.

19. You refuse to play without earplugs.

20. You ask the club owner if you can start at 8:30 p.m. instead of 9:30 p.m.

21. You check the TV schedule before booking a gig.

22. Your gig stool has a back.

23. You need a nap before the gig.

24. You don't let anyone sleep longer than you.

25. After the third set, you bug the club owner to let you quit early.

26. During the breaks, you now go to your van to lay down.

27. You prefer a music stand with a light because you can't remember lyrics you've been singing since the song first came out - on vinyl with a big hole in the middle.

28. After a Saturday night gig, you don't recover until Tuesday afternoon.

29. You can't operate without a set list.

30. You vow to ask for more money next time someone calls to book you...if in fact anyone calls. Now days no one does.

Don't Ever Grow Too Old
Author Unknown
Don't ever grow too old for birthdays,
Fun-things that you used to do,
Don't give up your dreams because you
Feel that they have not come true.

Don't forget the sound of laughter,
Or the love in someone's eyes,
Don't trade memories for pleasures,
All that in a moment dies.

Don't give up your zest for living,
Saying you are much too old,
Is this what you feel, or is it
Something that you have been told?

There's a valley deep within us,
Where there is eternal Spring,
Where there is no sound of sorrow,
And the birds forever sing.

Though your gait is not as steady,
Now as once it used to be,
And your vision's clouding over
Things you used to clearly see,

Do not let the weight of decades,
Turn you into bitter gall,
For with age there comes a wisdom,
That's a blessing to us all.

Hold your years up like a banner,
Wave it brightly in the sun,
When folks tell you life is over,
Tell them it has just begun.

Don't Go To Bed
Author Unknown
I've heard it said don't go to bed
while hanging on to sorrow,
you may not have the chance to laugh
with those you love tomorrow.

You may not mean the words you speak
when anger takes its toll,
you may regret your actions
once you've lost your self control.

When you've lost your temper
and you've said some hurtful things,
think about the heartache
that your actions sometime bring.

You'll never get those moments back,
such precious time to waste,
and all because of things you said
in anger and in haste.

So if you're loving someone
and your pride has settled in,
you may not ever have the chance
to say to them again...

"I love you and I miss you
and although we don't agree,
I'll try to see your point of view,
please do the same for me."

I've heard it said don't go to bed
while hanging on to sorrow,
you may not have the chance to laugh
with those you love tomorrow.

You may not mean the words you speak
when anger takes its toll,
you may regret your actions
once you've lost your self control.

When you've lost your temper
and you've said some hurtful things,
think about the heartache
that your actions sometime bring.

You'll never get those moments back,
such precious time to waste,
and all because of things you said
in anger and in haste.

So if you're loving someone
and your pride has settled in,
you may not ever have the chance
to say to them again...

"I love you and I miss you
and although we don't agree,
I'll try to see your point of view,
please do the same for me."

Don't Look Back
Author Unknown
Don't look back- As you travel through life there are always those times when decisions just have to be made
when the choices are hard, and solutions seem scarce and the rain seems to soak your parade!

There are some situations where all you can do is to simply let go and move on
gather courage together and choose a direction that carries you toward a new dawn.

So pack up your troubles and take a step forward the process of change can be tough
but think about all the excitement ahead if you can be strong enough!

There could be adventures you never imagined just waiting around the next bend
and wishes and dreams just about to come true in ways you can't yet comprehend!

Perhaps you'll find friendships that spring from new interests as you challenge your status quo
and learn there are so many options in life, and so many ways you can grow!

Perhaps you'll go places you never expected and see things that you've never seen
or travel to fabulous, faraway worlds and wonderful spots in between!

Perhaps you'll find warmth and affection and caring- a "somebody special" who's there
to help you stay centered and listen with interest to stories and feelings you share.

Perhaps you'll find comfort in knowing your friends are supportive of all that you do
and believe that whatever decisions you make, they'll be the right choices for you!

So keep putting one foot in front of the other and taking your life day by day.
There's a brighter tomorrow that's just down the road. Don't look back- you're not going that way!

A Keeper
One day someone's mother died. And on that clear, cold morning, in the warmth of her bedroom, the daughter was struck with the pain of learning that sometimes there isn't any more. No more hugs, no more lucky moments to celebrate together, no more phone calls just to chat, no more "just one minute." Sometimes, what we care about the most goes away . never to return before we can say good-bye, say "I Love You."

So while we have it . . . it's best we love it . .. and care for it and fix it when it's broken . and take good care of it when it's sick. This is true for marriage ... and friendships . And children with bad report cards; And dogs with bad hips; And aging parents and grandparents. We keep them because they are worth it, because we cherish them .

Some things we keep -- like a best friend who moved away or a classmate we grew up with. There are just some things that make us happy, no matter what. Life is important, and so are the people we know . . and so, We keep them close. Thank you very much for being a special part of my life! YOU ARE A KEEPER!

A Love Story
It was a busy morning, approximately 8:30 am, when an elderly gentleman in his 80's, arrived to have stitches removed from his thumb. He stated that he was in a hurry as he had an appointment at 9:00 am.

I took his vital signs and had him take a seat, knowing it would be over an hour before someone would to able to see him. I saw him looking at his watch and decided, since I was not busy with another patient, I would evaluate his wound.

On examining it, I observed it was well healed, so I talked to one of the doctors, got the needed supplies to remove his sutures and redress his wound. While taking care of his wound, we began to engage in conversation. I asked him if he had a doctor's appointment this morning, as he was in such a hurry.

The gentleman told me no, that he needed to go to the nursing home to eat breakfast with his wife. I then inquired as to her health. He told me that she had been there for a while and that she was a victim of Alzheimer Disease.

As we talked, and I finished dressing his wound, I asked if she would be worried if he was a bit late. He replied that she no longer knew who he was, that she had not recognized him in five years now.

I was surprised, and asked him. "And you still go every morning, even though she doesn't know who you are?" He smiled as he patted my hand and said. "She doesn't know me, but I still know who she is."

When I read this I thought, "That is the kind of love we all want in our lives." True love is neither physical, nor romantic. True love is an acceptance of all that is, has been, will be, and will not be.

It's a fact, "The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the best of everything that comes along their way."

A Wife's Request
I was sitting alone in one of those loud, casual steak houses that you find all over the country. You know the type--a bucket of peanuts on every table, shells littering the floor, and a bunch of perky college kids racing around with long neck beers and sizzling platters.

Taking a sip of my iced tea, I studied the crowd over the rim of my glass. My gaze lingered on a group enjoying their meal. They wore no uniform to identify their branch of service, but they were definitely "military:" clean shaven, cropped haircut, and that "squared away" look that comes with pride.

Smiling sadly, I glanced across my table to the empty seat where my husband usually sat. It had only been a few months since we sat in this very booth, talking about his upcoming deployment to the Middle East. That was when he made me promise to get a sitter for the kids, come back to this restaurant once a month and treat myself to a nice steak.

In turn he would treasure the thought of me being here, thinking about him until he returned home. I fingered the little flag pin I constantly wear and wondered where he was at this very moment. Was he safe and warm? Was his cold any better? Were my letters getting through to him? As I pondered these thoughts, high pitched female voices from the next booth broke into my thoughts.

"I don't know what Bush is thinking about. Invading Iraq . You'd think that man would learn from his old man's mistakes. Good lord. What an idiot! I can't believe he is even in office. You do know, he stole the election."

I cut into my steak and tried to ignore them, as th ey began an endless tirade running down our president. I thought about the last night I spent with my husband, as he prepared to deploy. He had just returned from getting his smallpox and anthrax shots. The image of him standing in our kitchen packing his equipment still gives me chills

Once again the women's voices invaded my thoughts.

"It is all about oil, you know. Our soldiers will go in and rape and steal all the oil they can in the name of 'freedom'. Hmmm! I wonder how many innocent people they'll kill without giving it a thought? It's pure greed, you know."

My chest tightened as I stared at my wedding ring. I could still see how handsome my husband looked in his "mess dress" the day he slipped it on my finger. I wondered what he was wearing now. Probably his desert uniform, affectionately dubbed "coffee stains" with a heavy bulletproof vest over it

"You know, we should just leave Iraq alone. I don't think they are hiding any weapons. In fact, I bet it's all a big act just to increase the president's popularity. That's all it is, padding the military budget at the expense of our social security and education. And, you know what else? We're just asking for another 9-11. I can't say when it happens again that we didn't deserve it."

Their words brought to mind the war protesters I had watched gathering outside our base. Did no one appreciate the sacrifice of brave men and women, who leave their homes and family to ensure our freedom? Do they even know what "freedom" is?

I glanced at the table where the young men were sitting, and saw their courageous faces change. They had stopped eating and looked at each other dejectedly, listening to the women talking.

"Well, I, for one, think it's just deplorable to invade Iraq, and I am certainly sick of our tax dollars going to train professional baby-killers we call a military." Professional baby-killers?

I thought about what a wonderful father my husband is, and of how long it would be before he would see our children again. That's it! Indignation rose up inside me. Normally reserved, pride in my husband gave me a brassy boldness I never realized I had.

Tonight one voice will answer on behalf of our military, and let her pride in our troops be known. Sliding out of my booth, I walked around to the adjoining booth and placed my hands flat on their table. Lowering myself to eye level with them, smilingly said, "I couldn't help overhearing your conversation. You see, I'm sitting here trying to enjoy my dinner alone. And, do you know why? Because my husband, whom I love with all my heart, is halfway around the world defending your right to say rotten things about him."

Yes, you have the right to your opinion, and what you think is none of my business. However, what you say in public is something else, and I will not sit by and listen to you ridicule MY country, MY president, MY husband, and all the other fine American men and women who put their lives on the line, just so you can have the "freedom" to complain. Freedom is an expensive commodity, ladies. Don't let your actions cheapen it."

I must have been louder that I meant to be, because the manager came over to inquire if everything was all right. "Yes, thank you," I replied. hen, turning back to the women, I said, "Enjoy the rest of your meal." As I returned to my booth applause broke out. I was embarrassed for making a scene, and went back to my half eaten steak. The women picked up their check and scurried away.

After finishing my meal, and while waiting for my check, the manager returned with a huge apple cobbler ala mode "Compliments of those soldiers," he said. He also smiled and said the ladies tried to pay for my dinner, but that another couple had beaten them to it. When I asked who, the manager said they had already left, but that the gentleman was a veteran, and wanted to take care of the wife of "one of our boys."

With a lump in my throat, I gratefully turned to the soldiers and thanked them for the cobbler. Grinning from ear to ear, they came over and surrounded the booth. "We just wanted to thank you, ma'am. You know we can't get into confrontations with civilians, so we appreciate what you did." As I drove home, for the first time since my husband's deployment, I didn't feel quite so alone. As for me, I have learned that one voice CAN make a difference. GOD BLESS AMERICA !

Adieu, Not Goodbye
Robert Beau
People may enter our lives through many different doors
Some stay forever, while others only pause

Did they happen here by chance or was it really fate
Their impact is not always known until a later date

Some accept the loss, while others continue to feel pain
We need to reflect on the positive in order to see the gain

Our children leave eventually and go their separate way
After having explored a bit they might come back some day

Often we will connect with that special love or friend
It could last forever or have an unjust end
A sudden departure may signal a change has just occurred

It may trigger sadness and leave our vision blurred

Understand that sometimes separations might be for the best
True love and friendship can endure emotions greatest test
Just say Adieu for today, there is no need for blame
Special people will remember more that just your name

Should they not return, understand they still may care
Remember life is always changing, not everything is fair

Be Thankful
Be thankful that you don't already have everything you desire. If you did, what would there be to look forward to?

Be thankful when you don't know something, for it gives you the opportunity to learn.

Be thankful for the difficult times. During those times you grow.

Be thankful for your limitations, because they give you opportunities for improvement.

Be thankful for each new challenge, because it will build your strength and character.

Be thankful for your mistakes. They will teach you valuable lessons.

Be thankful when you're tired and weary, because it means you've made a effort.

It's easy to be thankful for the good things. A life of rich fulfillment comes to those who are also thankful for the setbacks.

Gratitude can turn a negative into a positive.

Find a way to be thankful for your troubles, and they can become your blessings.

Best Lawyer
Charlotte, NC
A lawyer purchased a box of very rare and expensive cigars, then insured them against, among other things, fire. Within a month, having smoked his entire stockpile of these great cigars and without yet having made even his first premium payment on the policy the lawyer filed a claim against the insurance company.

In his claim, the lawyer stated the cigars were lost "in a series of small fires." The insurance company refused to pay, citing the obvious reason, that the man had consumed the cigars in the normal fashion. The lawyer sued.. And WON!

(Stay with me.)

Delivering the ruling, the judge agreed with the insurance company that the claim was frivolous. The judge stated nevertheless, that the lawyer held a policy from the company, which it had warranted that the cigars were insurable and also guaranteed that it would insure them against fire, without defining what is considered to be unacceptable fire" and was obligated to pay the claim. Rather than endure lengthy and costly appeal process, the insurance company accepted the ruling and paid $15,000 to the lawyer for his loss of the cigars lost in the "fires".

NOW FOR THE BEST PART..

After the lawyer cashed the check, the insurance company had him arrested on 24 counts of ARSON! With his own insurance claim and testimony from the previous case being used against him, the lawyer was convicted of intentionally burning his insured property and was sentenced to 24 months in jail and a $24,000 fine. This is a true story and was the First Place winner in the recent Criminal Lawyers Award Contest.

ONLY IN AMERICA

Bible, Dollar and A Bottle
An old country preacher had a teenage son and It was getting time for the boy to give some thought to choosing a profession. Like many young men, the boy didn't really know what he wanted to do, and he didn't seem too concerned about it.

One day, while the boy was away at school, the father decided to try an experiment. He went into The boy's room and placed on his study table three objects: a Bible, a silver dollar and a bottle of whiskey.

"I'll just hide behind the door," the old Preacher said to himself, "and when he comes home from school this afternoon, I'll see which object he picks up. If it's the Bible, he's going to be a preacher like me, and what a blessing that would be! If he picks up the dollar, he's going to be a businessman, and that would be okay, too. But if he picks up the bottle, he's going to be a no-good drunkard, and, Lord, what a shame that would be."

The old man waited anxiously, and soon heard his son's footsteps as he entered the house whistling and headed for his room. He tossed his books on the bed, and as he turned to leave the room he spotted the objects on the table. With curiosity in his eyes, he walked over to inspect them.

Finally, he picked up the Bible and placed it under his arm. He picked up the silver dollar and dropped it into his pocket. He uncorked the bottle and took a big drink.

"Lord have mercy," the old man whispered. "He's gonna be a Politician!"

Bumper Stickers
"IF YOU CAN'T FEED EM, DON'T BREED EM!"
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The Earth Is Full - Go Home.
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Cleverly Disguised As A Responsible Adult.
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If We Quit Voting, Will They All Go Away?
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Illiterate? Write For Help.
~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Honk If Anything Falls Off.
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Cover Me, I'm Changing Lanes.
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I Refuse To Have A Battle Of Wits
With An Unarmed Person.
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You! Out Of The Gene Pool - Now!
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I Do Whatever My Rice Krispies Tell Me To.
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Guys: No Shirt, No Service
Gals: No Shirt, No Charge
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Boldly Going Nowhere.
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Caution - Driver Legally Blonde.
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Heart Attacks: God's Revenge
For Eating His Animal Friends
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How Many Roads Must A Man Travel Down
Before He Admits He is Lost?
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All Men Are Animals; Some Just Make Better Pets.
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AND Finally

"POLITICIANS & DIAPERS BOTH NEED
TO BE CHANGED OFTEN, AND FOR
THE SAME REASON."

Dear Abby
Dear Abby,

I've never written to you before, but I really need your advice on
what could be a crucial decision. I've suspected for some time now
that my wife has been cheating on me.

The usual signs... phone rings but if I answer, the caller hangs up.
My wife has been going out with the girls a lot recently although when
I ask their names she always says, "Just some friends from work, you don't know them."

I always stay awake to look out for her taxi coming home, but she
always walks down the drive. Although I can hear a car driving off, as
if she has gotten out of the car round the corner. Why? Maybe she
wasn't in a taxi? I once picked her cell phone up just to see what
time it was and she went berserk and screamed that I should never
touch her phone again and why was I checking up on her.

Anyway, I have never approached the subject with my wife. I think deep
down I just didn't want to know the truth, but last night she went out
again and I decided to really check on her.

I decided I was going to park my Harley Davidson motorcycle next to
the garage and then hide behind it so I could get a good view of the
whole street when she came home. It was at that moment, crouching
behind my Harley, that I noticed that the valve covers on my engine
seemed to be leaking a little oil.

Is this something I can fix myself or should I take it back to the dealer?

Thanks, Bob

Why Men are Rarely Published in Dear Abby

Dear Tide
Dear Makers of Tide,

I am writing to say what an excellent product you have! I've used it all of my married life, as my Mom always told me it was the best. Now that I am in my fifties I find it even better! In fact, about a month ago, I spilled some red wine on my new white blouse. My inconsiderate and uncaring husband started to belittle me about how clumsy I was, and generally started becoming a pain in the neck. One thing led to another and somehow I ended up with his blood on my new white blouse! I grabbed my bottle of Tide with bleach alternative, and to my surprise and satisfaction, all of the stains came out!

In fact, the stains came out so well the detectives who came by yesterday told me that the DNA tests on my blouse were negative and then my attorney called and said that I was no longer considered a suspect in the disappearance of my husband. What a relief! Going through menopause is bad enough without being a murder suspect! I thank you, once again, for having a great product. Well, gotta go, have to write to the Hefty bag people.