HOW CAN I THANK YOU?

HOW CAN I THANK YOU?

How can I thank you for all you have done?
Of all of my brothers, you were the one
who reached out and gave me a new lease on living,
who understood the need, with the spirit of giving.

How can I thank you in a meaningful way?
Money's no object, I have no way to repay.
I've thought about it quite often and now I know
you're a veteran who gives Freedom a glow.

I've never been able to freely express
the place in my heart for America's best;
the men and the women who gave their all
when they answered "Yes!" to America's call.

I can't thank any of the ones who didn't come home,
whose existence is marked by a cross or a stone.
Yet to those who came back and lived with the pain,
my heartfelt thanks will be spoken again and again.

I saw in their eyes the tears still left unshed
as they spoke of their service, of those left dead.
I've heard the pride in their voices when they recall
how they served without much complaining at all.

How can I thank you in a meaningful way?
I can listen and hear all that you have to say,
and somehow I'll find the words that I need
to thank you sincerely, a veteran's creed.

May God guide your footsteps in years yet to come,
May the road never be uphill, may you have warmth of the sun.
May you have love and friendship and joy in your heart,
An old Irish blessing, but at least - It's a start.

Countrymom
7/17/07