In a posting from MJ Martin yesterday, we read the following words
from President Bush:

"Through the years, our veterans have returned home from their duties to
become active and responsible citizens in their communities, further
contributing to the growth and development of our Nation. Their
commitment to service inspires all Americans."

    Though many of our vets do return home and lead productive lives, so
many of them return home only to lead a much different life.  I heard on
the news that around 2/3 of our homeless men are veterans, and with the
war in Iraq, we now have a whole new wave of vets to contend with who
may have the same fate awaiting them.  Let's all remember these brave
men (and women) in our prayers, and hope that our president will have
more to offer them than just a few kind words.  Pray that God will heal
their minds and souls after having to endure so much violence and gore,
and allow them to lead the productive lives that God had intended for
them.
    I had an uncle that was a Vietnam vet - actually 2 - that both died
of cancer.  One was able to live a fairly normal life, whereas the other
developed a bad drinking problem that landed him in jail several times.
I am sure that he would have been homeless as well had it not been for
the kindness of my Grandmother who allowed him to stay with her.  He was
quite handy around the house, and worked several odd jobs to earn money
to help support her, so the arrangement did benefit both of them.
    However, my uncle was not the same after the Vietnam war -
especially upon the news that his best friend had been killed, and the
only part of his body returned to the states was his head!  I live near
Columbine High School, and even have a daughter attending school there.
I still have my moments when I think about the shooting.  Sometimes I
cry and feel so scared, angry, helpless, ...!  I know teenagers
(actually some are now over 20), who were never the same after that
horrific day!  I cannot begin to fathom the horrors these vets have been
through, and how they often relive those horrors in their minds!
    Please pray for them, and remember when you see beggars on the
street to have a kind heart and remember that they may just be there
because of a sacrifice they made for you!  Keep them in mind also when
doing your Christmas shopping, and remember to give to organizations
that will help to provide the homeless with a Merry Christmas as well!

God Bless,
Valerie Z.