Murphy’s Law says, “Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong.” Larry traveled when our children were young, and I became very well acquainted with Murphy. It’s hard to negotiate medical emergencies and broken automobiles alone when you’re used to partnering with your spouse.

Larry was usually never gone more than a week or two at a time. I can’t imagine what it’s like for military spouses whose mates spend months at a time in life-threatening and life-altering situations. Many leave whole, but return bearing injuries invisible to the world, but all too obvious to their families.

Our US military families are the heroes whose sacrifices protect our freedom and quality of life. The Fourth of July is a good time to remember them.

To do that, I want to introduce you to Support Military Spouses. Diane Rumley was inspired to find tangible ways to support our military spouses. She gives ideas for shoe-boxes for male and female recipients. Each gift box contains a personal thank you card or letter.

When I visited their offices Diane showed me letters written by children. One boy had drawn pictures and told the recipient, “Never, never lose hope. Your spouse will walk through that door and hug you like Darth Vader.”

I hope you’ll check out the ministry and consider how you can get involved. It feels good to say thanks to people whose sacrifices benefit us daily.

Our nation’s birthday is also a time to remember the grace God has poured out on us. Our national monuments in DC remind us how well aware our founding fathers were of God’s leading and protection in our delicate beginning. God has truly blessed us. May we, who call on His name, honor Him in how we live.

Happy birthday America! This America the Beautiful by Twila Paris is dedicated to you.

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Blessings,

Deborah W. Wilson

Photo by: Denise Krebs