Standing on the Shoulders of Giants

From time to time, I write here about things I experience in my military service. But it is important to remember that we are not the first generation to experience war, and as much as I would hope it to be true, it is likely that we are not going to be the last. I want to take a moment to mention the selfless service of my Uncle L. during World War II. This spring he was awarded a public service award from the state of Connecticut for his military duty in WWII. For all the time I have known him, he has been one of calmest, kindest, and gentlest people I know. It is beautiful to see the love between him and my Aunt J. Spending time with them, it is difficult to imagine back to a time more than 60 years ago when our nation was plunged into a conflict that had a much greater effect on day to day life than this war does. It makes the effect that my military service has had on my life seem smaller in comparison. It doesn't, however, decrease my desire for a rapid end to this war.

Thank you, Sir and Madam

Dear Sir and Madam,

We don’t know who you are, but we want to thank you. It was so generous of you to pay for our dinner at Le Reve last night. It was the Fourth of July, but we were actually there to celebrate our wedding anniversary. It is one of the high points of our year to visit Andrew and Maureen for a wonderful meal. We didn’t mean for you to overhear that I had returned from my second trip to Iraq this year. The staff knows that I was away and it seemed like each of them individually asked if I was going to have to go back. When you wished me a good evening as you left, I naively took it to be a simple farewell. Meredith asked if we had been talking while she was in the ladies’ room, but I told her that I thought it was just a warm greeting from another friendly diner. At the end of the evening, when the staff told us that you had taken care of our bill, I was dumbstruck. Meredith was so surprised and thankful that she couldn’t keep back tears. It really was far too generous, and wholly not necessary. When I do my military service, I am just doing a job, same as everyone else. It is something I chose of my own free will. Andrew and Maureen have promised they will try to convey our thanks to you. You gave us a very happy Fourth of July.

Chris and Meredith

Why she plays

Hi, I wanted to tell you all about an incredible new book written by my cousin, Christine Baker, that is being released in August. "Why She Plays" is about all aspects of women's basketball. It is a subject that Christine has lived through and through for most of her life. Besides playing during school, she has covered the WNBA as a journalist. I have had a chance to read some of Christine's work, and it is amazing how she can relate both the excitement and the spirituality of the game. Please check out her website for more information about the book:

www.whysheplays.com