Another Christmas, another sacrifice.
So many times before my son said, “Mom, it’s alright.”
“Here’s the things that I miss and won’t take for granted again.
Warm beds, hot showers, and time with the family to spend.
But, I knew when I signed up that I’d be going away.
I wanted to go so others could stay.
Safe and content in their hometowns.
‘Cause we’re here, I know we are keeping the terrorists down.
I’d rather fight them over here, than on Main Street at home.
Even if that means I will spend Christmas alone.
But, I’m not really lonely. I know God is here with me.
I wish you could hear what I hear and see what I see.
Future generations will know we did our duty as those
who came before.
Even though there are some who don’t agree with this war.
Maybe if our fellow Americans could experience this walk.
They’d understand how we feel when some celebrities talk.
They speak of the war, then forget that we’re here.
They shun association with the soldiers because they fear
damage to their reputation or a shift in their career.
It’s a shame. Politicians don’t remember our names.
All they can do is point the finger to blame.
But, I know what we’re doing matters, and I really can foresee.
That commitment makes a difference, at least it did for me.
I’ll never have to wonder if I followed my head and heart.
I know I have conviction and the strength to finish what I start.
So, Mama, Merry Christmas. And Happy Birthday to Jesus, too.
Tell Dad and everyone else I miss them and I love all of you.”
Debbie-Kaye Drake
December 11, 2007