Jake at the Creek

When I stopped at a gas station in Minnesota to use the restroom, I came back to the truck and Jake was gone. I knew he wasn't in the store because I would have passed him. After a minute I see him coming up the embankment.

"What are you doing? I know you're not taking a leak out there..."

"Man, there a little creek I saw down there...it's so peaceful."

"Okay, I'll go check it out."

Since there was still snow on the ground we slid a little ways down the embankment, but we didn't fall. Sure enough, there was a little brook and it was quite peaceful. It was quiet enough down there you could hear the water gently rushing by. It made me think of the kind of creek I want running through my property when I buy land to build on.

Salutes of Respect

Back in ROTC, as in the military, you are to salute officers when in uniform. After your first year, you no longer have to think about this, it just becomes automatic.

During my senior year, Jason rose to the position of deputy Corp Commander and the rank of lt Colonel. I, in turn rose to the position of Senior Enlisted Advisor at the rank of Chief Master Sergeant. When we exchanged salutes it truly was out of respect. Respect for the hard work we had put in; respect for each other, and lastly respect for the rank.

It troubles me that someone I used to share such a respect and honor with, I now, feel none. He used to say he had written me off for the mistakes I had made, but I got back to knowing him and now that I know the person he has become, it is me who has written him off. I don't talk to anyone I went to school with the exception of a few...a very select few.

What have you become?

When you are born...
You are Male or Female

When dare to take on the world without a fear in your heart...
You are a boy...

When you take your first job...
You are an adult...

When you find that special someone you want to spend the rest of your life with...
You are a husband...

When your child recognizes your voice when they are less than five minutes old...
You are a father...

When your child reaches out to you when they can't talk, because they know you will protect them and they feel safe with you...
You are a daddy...

When your child is grown and seeks a mate of their own...
You are a source of wisdom and advice...

When your child has a child of their own and has no fear because of the example you set..
You are a grand-daddy...

When the Lord calls you home and says, "Well done good and faithful servant..."
You are everything He hoped you would be...