An attitude of gratitude

You cannot do a kindness too soon, for you never know how soon it will be too late. -Ralph Waldo Emerson

I sat in my seat of the Boeing 767 waiting for everyone to hurry and stow their carry-on luggage, and grab a seat so we could start what I was sure to be a long, uneventful flight home. With the huge capacity and slow moving people taking their time to stuff luggage far too big for the overhead compartments, and not paying much attention as they were holding up the growing line behind them, I simply shook my head knowing that this flight was not starting out very well.

Just then, the attendant came on the intercom to inform us all that we were being delayed. The entire plane let out a collective groan. She resumed speaking to say "We are holding the aircraft for some very special people who are on their way to the plane, and the delay shouldn't be more than 5 minutes.

The word came after waiting six times as long as we were promised that "I" was finally going to be on my way home. Why the hoopla over "these" folks? I was expecting some celebrity or sport figure to be the reason for the hold up. Just get their butts in a seat and lets hit the gas I thought. The attendant came back on the speaker to announce in a loud and excited voice that several U. S. Marines returning home from Iraq were joining us!

Just as they walked on board, the entire plane erupted into applause. The men were a bit taken by surprise by the 340 people cheering for them as they searched for their seats. Their hands were being shook and touched by almost everyone who was within an arm's distance of them as they passed down the aisle. One elderly woman kissed the hand of one of the Marines as he passed by her. The applause, whistles and cheering didn't stop for a long time.

When we were finally airborne, I was not the only civilian checking his conscience as to the delays in "me" getting home, finding my easy chair, a cold beverage and the television remote. These men had left their families behind and fought on behalf of their country, and I had been complaining silently about "me" and "my" issues. I had been taking for granted, the everyday freedoms enjoy and the conveniences of the American way of life. I took for granted that others paid the price for my ability to moan and complain about a few minutes delay. I was completely lost in my own desires, needs, and wants, without one single thought of anyone else or what they might have been experiencing.

I attempted to get my selfish outlook in check, and minutes before we landed I suggested to the attendant that she announce over the speaker a request for everyone to remain in their seats until our hero's were allowed to gather their things and be first off the plane. The cheers and applause continued until the last Marine stepped off. I was proud of them. It was an honor and a privilege to be among the first to welcome them home and say Thank You for a job well done. I vowed that I will never forget that flight, nor the lesson learned. I can't say it enough, THANK YOU to those Veterans and active servicemen and women who may read this, and a prayer for those who cannot because they are no longer with us. WELCOME HOME!

When you arise in the morning, give thanks for the morning light, for your life and strength. Give thanks for your food, and the joy of living. If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies with yourself. - Tecumseh, Shawnee Chief

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