All the fixings were there: turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes and even yams. Surrounded by parents, the kids were proudly showing off their crafts and art masterpieces. Smiles all around. The administrators were beaming with pride as they pointed out what made them the "best of the best" centers. Of course, the staff was bustling around trying to connect with all of the parents and making sure a food fight didn't break out among the kids. But in the crowded room, not everyone was happy. At the end of the table, one little boy sat transfixed with his eyes on the door. The sadness grew and no one opened the door looking for him. But still he waited. Sure, his mom was there, fussing and cooing at him. But a few silent tears rolled down his chubby cheeks; his dad wasn't there, he was deployed.
As we pondered our full plates and gave a quick prayer of thanks, a kind of quirky smile crossed his face. Something had changed. It wasn't Mom; she had gotten distracted and was talking to other moms. Curious, I stopped to chat. He said he was sad but it was OK, he was still thankful for his daddy who was being brave. He said he was brave too and wouldn't cry any more.
His sadness had turned to pride as he thought of his dad protecting all of us. He smiled and asked me to sit next to him. I guess in some way, I helped fill the void. There was no place else I'd rather be in the entire world.
It was a simple moment, one that is repeated in classrooms, dining rooms, and everywhere there is a child missing their deployed parent. In spite of his personal sadness, he was able to reach within and find something to be thankful for. It almost brought a tear to my eye but I quickly chased that away, celebrating his moment of joy. His 4-year-old strength was truly inspiring.
As we sit down with our family and friends, on Thanksgiving and every day, it is important that we remember to give thanks for those that serve. The men and women of our military make great sacrifices for us, and not just on Thanksgiving. Even if they are far behind the wire and not in harm's way, they give of themselves to help us to have the things we are thankful for. Perhaps in my own way, it's why I do what I do.
The most important part of the celebration is in the prayer of thanks for giving. It's really the only nourishment we need.