The Next Generation

Today, I am giving thanks for generous help.  We recently moved to a 1929 vintage farmhouse because I needed to relocate for a job change.  We are preparing for a complete remodel of the kitchen.  I needed to get a washer and dryer out of the area where the kitchen is going and down into the basement.  I also needed to get a new refrigerator out the crate in the garage and into the house where we could at least use it while it awaits placement in the new kitchen.

The basement stairs are steep and narrow.  The appliances wouldn’t go through any of the doors with the doors still on (including the doors on the ‘fridge).  For that matter, the fridge wouldn’t fit through the door next to the garage, and had to go across the yard on the grass to the front door.  I have an appliance dolly, but this just wasn’t a one-person job.

I asked the college-age son of my neighbor a half-mile to the north to give me a hand.  He is only home for the thanksgiving weekend to spend time with his family.  But he didn’t hesitate to say yes.  He worked with a will for the two hours it took to get the appliances moved, even helping me to put the doors back on the refrigerator.

At the end of the labor, he wouldn’t accept any payment.  His reason?  “This is just what neighbors do”, he said.  So if you wonder about the hands the country is going into for the next generation, I would say at least in rural Iowa, the future looks bright.

Thanks Will!

Thanks, US Military Personnel!

This Thanksgiving weekend, as I enjoy time at home with my family, those of you who are standing tall in our military to protect American freedoms have been on my mind.  I thank you all, though mere gratitude seems a paltry offering compared to your sacrifice.  (In the same way that we have to recognize that Jesus’ sacrifice for us can never be repaid by human effort.)  I served six years in the U.S. Navy down toward the end of the Vietnam war, so I know something of what it is like to be young and away from loved ones for extended periods.  (I also know that my NAVY service was like a vacation cruise compared to the daily life of many of you who are currently in harm’s way.)  I am humbled by your dedication to duty and your willingness to sacrifice for the rest of us.  Thank you!  You are in my prayers.  May God bless and protect you.