This was sent to me by Marty Crull and I immediately thought this could be Veterans Day/Christmas Day message combined and remind us to be thankful for our Veterans this Thanksgiving weekend. Mary Ann CC & List Manager Jersey Co. ILGenWeb > >>>Santa's Reflections >>>> >>>> >>>> The Night Before Christmas >>>> >>>> Twas the night before Christmas, he lived all alone >>>> In a one bedroom house made of plaster and stone. >>>> I had come down the chimney with presents to give, >>>> And to see just who in this home did live. >>>> I looked all about, a strange sight did I see, >>>> No tinsel, no presents, not even a tree. >>>> No stockings by the mantle, just boots filled with sand, >>>> On the wall hung pictures of far distant lands. >>>> With medals and badges, awards of all kinds, >>>> A sober thought came through my mind. >>>> For this house was different, it was dark and dreary, >>>> I found the house of a soldier, once I could see clearly. >>>> The soldier lay sleeping, silent, alone, >>>> Curled upon the floor in this one bedroom home. >>>> The face was so gentle, the room in such disorder, >>>> Not how I pictured a United States soldier. >>>> Was this the hero of whom I had just read? >>>> Curled up on a poncho, the floor for a bed? >>>> I realized the families I saw on this night, >>>> Owed their lives to these soldiers, who were willing to fight. >>>> Soon round the world the children would play, >>>> And grownups would celebrate a bright Christmas day. >>>> They all enjoyed freedom each month of the year, >>>> Because of the soldiers, like the one lying here. >>>> I couldn't help wonder how many lay alone, >>>> On a cold Christmas Eve, in a land far from home. >>>> The very thought brought a tear to my eye, >>>> I dropped to my knees and started to cry. >>>> The soldier awakened and I heard a rough voice, >>>> "Santa, don't cry, this life is my choice; >>>> I fight for freedom, I don't ask for more, >>>> My life is my God, my Country, my Mates." >>>> The soldier rolled over and drifted back to sleep, >>>> I couldn't control it, I started to weep. >>>> I kept watch for hours, so silent and still, >>>> And we both shivered from the cold night's chill. >>>> I didn't want to leave on that cold, dark night >>>> The Guardian of Honor so willing to fight. >>>> The soldier rolled over, with a voice soft and pure, >>>> whispered, "Carry on, Santa, >>>> It's Christmas Day, All is secure." >>>> One look at my watch and I knew he was right >>>> Merry Christmas, my friend, and to all a Good Night! >>>> >>>> -Author Unknown >>>> >>> >>> >> >> >