Photo from the United States Air Force Academy’s 2011 Graduation Ceremony by the amazing Tom Jost for the USAFA yearbook (Polaris).
Right as the United States Air Force Academy’s Class of 2011 was dismissed, they tossed their hats in the air and hooped and hollered so loud they almost rivaled the roar of the Thunderbirds overhead. It’s tradition to end the ceremony this way, and those brand new Air Force officers have earned this last hurrah. The cadets-turned-officers sacrifice a lot during their 4 years at the academy. It’s impossible to graduate without giving substantial time, energy, blood, sweat, {and maybe} tears to the rigorous requirements. It’s one example of many that proves a sacrifice is necessary for a greater good:
- Hours of classes, study and drills for a dream realized.
- Lives lost in battle so a nation and its people remain free.
- A death on the cross for life never-ending with the Savior.
It’s the God-created rhythm of this world, the only true balance. Also, it’s the evidence that His presence and goodness are found in the hard stuff, even though it’s difficult to see that sometimes.
So, when my vision turns blind to the good in something terrible, I read through my gratitudes and I keep adding to the list. They are the undeniable proof of His graces. Every single day, they are there. And the more I look for them, the more bold and bright they are.
“Go through each day looking for what I have prepared for you. Accept every event as My hand-tailored provision for your needs. When you view your life this way, the most reasonable response is to be thankful. Do not reject any of My gifts; find me in every situation.”
From Jesus Calling by Sarah Young, p. 156
On this Memorial Day, may we be thankful for the obvious, like those who have paid the ultimate price so we can breathe free. May we be thankful for the sacrifice given by the families of our fallen. And may we be thankful for the less obvious things, like cold hands that make this Mama squeal. Or whatever that looks like in your neck of the woods!
From My Ongoing Gratitude List:
885. An end-of-school water ballon fight.
886. A girl’s cold hands that make me squeal.
887. Tears over the last day of school…proof of a good year!
888. Sweet friends and yummy yogurt.
889. A birthday dinner with Italian food and good friends.
890. Much needed, good smelling rain.
891. Freedom.
892. Families of our service members.
893. Togetherness.
May you and yours have some together time this weekend, and may you whisper a prayer for those who don’t.
