In Memorial to the Reluctant Heroes

 

We all find ourselves with expertise in reluctance. At first thought, it is not perceived as a virtue.  To hesitate... to doubt...to question...to be non-committal... We've  got a lot of experience in this.

 

To be 'reluctant'.

 

So I'm reluctant to see what Webster has to say. Guess I'm not looking for any additional opinions on the matter. But actually, I am.

 

Because I've been rather  reluctant of late to compose and share. Oh, I've been composing. But it seems I'm avoiding something. Currents of change swirl. I am feeling the flow push and pull me in a number of directions. Today I have a centering energy that takes over my fingers and eyes and heart.

 

The Reluctant Heroes.

 

 

Today we honor you with Your day.

Those who gave the 'last, full measure' in battle for our freedom, peace and way of life.

Thank you.

 

Webster surely must account for this form of reluctance if I look it up. To resist false glory... to deny hype and pomp... to avoid the limelight... for self-gain and ego... To simply yet courageously do what is right in man's eye and God's.

 

The Reluctant Heroes.

 

Yes, reluctance can be noble. Warriors who sacrificed for their brothers and sisters, husbands and wives, parents  and those behind the front lines of conflict. For infinite kindness and peace that we pray they have found as the result of their sacrifice.

 

Amazing grace... how sweet the sound...

 

God I'm reluctant to say this. But I feel I missed something. Somewhere I should have been or someplace I was supposed to be. For someone else. And I, the wretch, was saved instead.

 

Today, do you feel a bit the same way? Is this a collective sense of guilt? A gratitude for something we could not earn but yet benefitted? I won't say I hope so. But I will admit I will accept it and never forget.

 

Among the marks of true heroism is the light that it leaves behind. An illumination of sorts that shines into eternity. This is the lasting credit to mortals who light the path to a greater nobility in life for us to follow.

 

And while we must always remain willing and able to defend our true treasure, let us, with the same noble virtues gained from those who've gone ahead, be reluctant to dispense the mortal weapons we have accumulated. If we ever must, God have mercy on us. Today, especially:

 

God Bless the Reluctant Heroes.

 

 

P/S:  Dear Mr. Webster:

FYI, I believe this form of reluctance to be a Beacon; of hope, faith and courage.

A Memorial unto it's own.

Thank you for considering in next edition.

Most humbly submitted; 

 

Your reluctant author,

 

Memorial Day; 26 May, 2014