It Takes a Village


On my Living the Dream blog this morning I posted about villages. RV parks are like villages, and the smaller they are, the more we get to know people - especially during long term stays.
It reminded me of the saying that it takes a village to raise a child.
How true.
In the 12 years that I have been a military mom, the "village" made up of people we know because of this roller coaster life has grown to be like a huge city - no boundaries or distance. Just bridges to connect us across the miles.
On Wednesday, we were in SEARS to get a few things I needed and we met a WWII veteran. We stopped and chatted after Ron made a comment to him about his WWII veteran's cap which sported all sorts of pins from the units he served in. Ron had his Fort Carson shirt on which was a great thing to have on at that moment because the man just happened to have been stationed there before Fort Benning...from which he "took a little boat ride." He mentioned that he was only in combat for 10 months before the end of the war - after which he completed his military commitment in Germany during the post war occupation. He is 84 - had just finished walking two laps of the huge mall we were in, and was very proud of his service. NOT a boastful pride, but rather the pride of being able to serve our country and protect her during a time of war. His eyes glistened at times, his voice thickened as he spoke of how important the men and women of today's military are. I found myself tearing up as well.
This man is part of a disappearing generation of men and women - more and more of them passing each day, but whose service will never be forgotten or cease being appreciated.
When he asked about Laurie and Stephen, his interest in them was genuine. We parted ways, but not before he told us to take care of them....and said that he would keep them in his prayers.
Yes, it takes a village to raise a child. And we never know when we will meet (or become) another villager. Here on the internet, or in the aisle of the Misses department at SEARS.

I'm so thankful that I am living in the same village as all of you...remember that they are filled with two way streets. This villager isn't here just to reap all the benefits, but to be a good neighbor as well. Prayers are the most privileged blessing we have to offer - and you have mine as well as I know our family has yours.
Blessings to you all from a thankful mom.