Love of a Father
Today was special - Veterans Day - a day to honor our hero's. Mine, my Dad, was gone.
I decided I would honor him by going to Applebee's and sitting with vet's who were alone - none of our service people should eat alone on their special day.
The place was crowded to overflowing & once I was finally inside I watched for anyone of his era being seated alone. Apprehensive, but determined to accomplish my mission, I approached a table & asked if I might take the empty second seat. The answer was yes, please do. I explained why I was there & John was gracious and glad of the company. He was alone because his daughters couldn't be with him. When the meal arrived I asked if I could pray - he put his hand out & we did, right there in the restaurant, two strangers bound by one thing - the love of our country.
He is a Vietnam vet. 25 years my senior & we had a delightful meal - we discussed politics, the state of the world, his duties during his years of service. We spoke about my visit to The Wall in D.C., the price of gas, the changes that have happened even in my short lifetime, the loss of respect for others & manners in society. He does not have a computer or care to watch TV.
I answered his questions about my life after I had asked him everything I could think of - I was there to honor him, not talk about myself. That's when "my Dad" showed up - John gave advice, encouragement & support, just as my Dad would have. So unexpected when I went to give care, not receive it.
Just one meal but so much more - at the end of dinner I thanked him, we shook hands & I excused myself, he had an early flight to catch to visit his 93 year old mother in PA. and I didn't want to keep him. I was waiting to find another vet. to sit with when John appeared at the bottom of the stairs on his way out and offered a Dad's hug, truly the love of a father.
