The Least of These

I felt physically sick. The email said that little Hayli was headed to the hospital in Temple, TX. Her platelets were only 10 (normal is 150-350). I was having a moment of deja vu. What is going on in this world? What is happening to the people around me? I anxiously awaited more news. A few hours later an email saying that the initial diagnosis is ITP, a bleeding disorder. Please pray for Hayli, she is my niece's daughter. She's only 5. Also pray for her parents, Jesse and Heidi. Jesse serves our country and is based out of Fort Hood. They have 2 boys younger than Hayli, Jace and Kaiden.

On the other end of the spectrum...As I read the paper today, my heart was filled with pride. You would have thought that I was reading about my own son. My friend's son Zac is home on furlough from Baghdad. Two local Northwest Arkansas 3rd grade classes have been writing to his unit and he recently surprised them with a visit. The students were fascinated by part of his mission. He gets to visit with elementary schools in Iraq to help ease tensions. I haven't asked him, but I would imagine that this is a heartbreaking and rewarding part of his job. Maybe he would tell me that kids are kids no matter what language they speak. They love soccer and hope that the soldiers have candy to hand out. They are always desperate for the soldiers to have extra soccer balls to leave with them. Zac says that the soccer balls are like gold to these children. I am proud of Zac for not only serving his country but serving God. The attention and love that he shares with these children goes farther than any words. The few moments they take to play soccer or hand out a piece of candy show these children that they matter to the soldiers. So as you think about the war, say a pray for Zac's unit. They are emissaries for the U.S.A. No matter what your stand on military presence in other countries, remember these young men and women represent all of us. They have the unique opportunity to touch the lives of those around the world. Support them and tell them that you appreciate their sacrifice.