08/22/2015
This is going to be a long post. I don't care if you like it but I ask that you do read it!
Yesterday I spent some time at a funeral for one a man that I believe the mold was broken after he was created. Midas, the Greek King, would touch things and those things would turn to gold. When Rob Hecker, touched things they turned to love and beauty.
I am saddened to say I did not spend nearly enough time with him, to learn more how to love so unconditionally and fully every person I meet. This is my own doing and going forward I will take what I have learned and live the Rob Hecker ways.The first will to give those Hecker Hugs! No one hugged more fully and whole hearted as Rob, so if physical contact makes you weary, you better say so now because I am gonna hug you. And like Rob I am going to do it until you hug me back!!
That being said, I want to talk about the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR). yesterday they allowed me the privilege to stand with them. Matt and I joined this organization two years ago and have never stood in a flag line like this. Of that I am ashamed! But here is what I learned yesterday while standing in this line and watching these men and women.
Most of these men and women have served in the Armed Forces to defend our country and the freedoms we at times take for granted. Some, like myself, have not personally served, but have loved ones that have and loved ones who currently serve. This is their way to show respect and thanks to their loved one and all the brothers and sisters in arms.
As I stood holding the American Flag, the strong symbol of our country's unity and freedom, I watched numerous vehicles drive by. Some drivers did not even acknowledge the line of flags or the bikes along the street outside the funeral home. Many too busy on their cell phones, some too self absorbed to even turn down their radios that blared and seemed oppressive to anyone around that car. Some people stopped an took pictures. I wondered if it was curiosity, or a bit of respect. Some saluted and thanked the line of men and women.
These men and women exemplify Patriotism in action. They are the Patriots that some have defended our country. They have been disrespected at times by it's people, yet continue to stand for good. The protect the grieving families in their darkest moments from outsiders that would cause greater harm. the comfort those same families with their honor and respect while standing that line, showing in silence, the loved one they will nnot go thankless and unnoticed.
As I sat with several of them before the mission I noticed some sweet things.They all served in different branches and tease each other about which branch is greater. BUT they are all brothers and sisters. They took time to stop and have silence , and to say some words in honor of this fallen hero and hoped they were a comfort to his family.
All this AND when the men and women come back from a tour to the Middle East, they get a welcome home (if they want it) like no other. Our own son had a convoy of trucks and motorcycles decked in American flags, that met us at the airport and lead the way to his celebration. After untying his yellow ribbon from the town's green, many came back and fellow shipped with us in our home. They are wonderful!!!
These men and women may look sometimes rough around the edges with their leather vests and motorcycles, but they have hearts of pure gold and so much love! They are the men and women I WANT to know, to call friend and to stand beside.
If you do not know about this amazing group please follow the link below. Maybe your heart will call you to thank one of these individuals. maybe it will move you to be a part of their mission, to stand silently and beautifully beside them to honor our true American HEROES!
Thank you Patriot Guard Riders for who you are, what you do and what you stand for!
www.patriotguard.org
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