Most people I have encountered this past week have been pretty much obsessed with the Olympics. In fairness it is a global event that has a rich and long heritage. People and nations prepare long and hard to be ready to test their standings not only against their personal best – but against some of the world’s best athletes.
Don’t misunderstand what I am about to say as I have nothing against the Olympic Games. I have even been blessed to know a few athletes of that standing and yes, I was impressed with their talent and commitment. My only comment is one of perspective.
While the world watched in awe of skiers on Saturday many, yet a smaller crowd than those watching the Olympics, stood in respect for a young man at my church. While many listened for the announcements of scores… we listened to the sound of taps. A genuine Navy hero from our church family had come home and we laid him to rest.
I heard nothing of his courage and heroism announced on the local stations. I heard repetitious reporters drone on about gold and bronze medals. Yet nothing was mentioned of the medals this man had earned. Don’t tell me he was just one and there were so many athletes competing. Don’t do that, because although there are hundreds, perhaps thousands of Olympic athletes, there are hundreds of thousands, even millions of true American heroes.
While there was not a passing mention of this man’s sacrifice or short life of character and courage, there was one short news story of interest. There was a gathering downtown in one of our major hotels here in
There may not be many who get excited about our heroes in uniform. Not many commemorative coins struck in their memory sold on late night TV. Yet I still humbly stand for such men and women who have earned my respect. I still shed tears when I think of their sacrifices. And yes, I still take time to pray for those serving now, for their safety and for their families. These people are and remain my heroes.
Copyright © 2010 by Charles Lyons
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