Red Friday

Yesterday was Red Friday. If you’ve never heard of it, the concept is simple- wear red on Fridays to show support for our troops. Although it has been going under the radar for years, I just learned of it this week. I embraced it whole-heartedly and quickly sent out “invites” on Facebook for my friends and co-workers to join. It was really cool to see so many people wearing red yesterday at work because of it. 

I will admit, I have not been the most supportive of our troops in the past. I have personal reasons for this, although the reasons were down-right stupid. It was nothing against them whatsoever- just the military in general. But a couple of months ago, I became close again to one of the best friends I’ve ever had or ever will have. He is a Sargent in the Army. Ironically, we connected again at his going away party before he left for Iraq. Although we have been in touch again for years, we just clicked that night. I wound up attending a going away ceremony for his unit a few days later, and it was there I realized how un-supportive I have been. How much I missed out on. How much I wasn’t a part of his life at all. I will never forget the moment he walked into the ceremony, the smile upon his face as he looked up at us. I vowed that night to support him in any way I can. 

It doesn’t matter what your stance is on the war(s) going on now, or that may/will occur in the future. These men & women signed up to fight for and protect not only what they believe in, but what you believe in. I am so thankful and pray for our troops and their leaders everyday. Please re-blog this and spread the word of support. 

I also want to include something I found on the web yesterday, written by a Veteran: 

Whether active duty, retired, national guard or reserve is someone who, at one point in his life, wrote a blank check made payable to ” The United States of America”, for an amount of “up to and including my life.” That is Honor, and there are way too many people in this country who no longer understand it.

Although he left in January, my best friend didn’t officially arrive in Iraq until yesterday. He will be there for at least a year. I miss him terribly, and love him even more.

I love you, Adam. I am beyond proud of you. I can’t wait to hear about your time there, can’t wait to see you again. Until then, I pray and trust that God will keep you safe. And have fun!

Hugs, kisses, and more love,

Raven

P.S. I am well aware that just wearing red on Fridays really does nothing but bring awareness to others. There are many ways to support our troops. Search online for the best way for you, or even visit your local VFW for info. Thanks.