9/11
Memorial Day- Honor, Observance, and the Great Debt We Owe
Memorial Day- Honor, Observance, and the Great Debt We Owe.
Today is the day we honor and show our respect for our nation’s heroes. We recognize our veterans and especially those that have fallen during wars/conflicts/line-of-duty that have given service, and or the ultimate sacrifice. This is afforded to us by these great men and women for our great country, our freedom, and pursuit of the American dream.
I grew up in a military family. My father, Eugene Joyner was a career Navy man, retiring after 22 years in 1974. He served on the USS Wisconsin, USS New Jersey, and a handful of other ships. We were not told of many experiences he had, but it was a serious conversation when mentioning the “Bay of Pigs.” I also have two uncles David McCoy, and Neil McCoy who served during the Korean and Vietnam wars. They do not talk about it much. What was not said was understood. It was serious stuff, and it greatly impacted them. In our family, showing honor and respect on this day, and the other 364 days was ingrained in our upbringing. We were taught to respect and show our gratitude for all those in uniform who served us, and those who served us in the past. We knew the significance, the depth of what it all meant.
Without question, our veterans, our heroes deserve our gratitude, honor, and respect. In general, the majority of us as Americans get this. It is my belief that it is wrong to confuse free speech, and protest with the fundamental honor and respect due to these great men and women. We honor and love them, but may vehemently hate war. Today we honor our own, not to debate war itself or the darker side of humanity.
My thoughts and wanderings today brought me to this question today: What if any do we owe or in debt to for those that we honor today? As I thought about this, I gave reflection to what they sacrificed for, what was so important to them they would willingly die for. The low hanging fruit is easy- protect family, loved ones, friends, neighbors, fellow Americans. During the great wars the threat was easy to identify, today we see terrorist acts which can strike anyone of us. Protecting each other is a fundamental motivation. I think what we owe these great men and women is how we conduct ourselves, how we treat each other, how we contribute to our way of life, the greater common good. Is it not fair to say that the great sacrifices were afforded to preserve if not promote all the good and virtues of the American way of life, our freedoms, and the things we enjoy and pursue? It is not unlike moral code ingrained in our beliefs of faith, the way we make the world a better place by our contributions/roles that we give of ourselves. It is my deeply held conviction that we honor them best by making good on the freedoms they fought for. The freedom to choose doing good deeds, work hard, raise our children well, treating others well, deal with others honestly, and fairly. Would it not be fitting to honor them by making what they sacrificed for worthy, and a much better place? This is what they deserve in our gratitude, our debt to pay. I believe this would be redeeming for all of us.
With this I leave you with these thoughts to ponder. As you enjoy the day in celebrating and honoring these great men and women, spend time with family and loved ones, that you make good in some small way on what you have gained by their efforts and sacrifice.
© 2015 Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 – 13th Anniversary
Here we are at the 13th anniversary of a tragic, horrible, and most certainly evil event. It is so easy to fall into the rhetoric and fill our hearts of hatred for obviously skewed and fanatical groups of terrorists that spread their twisted views and commit heinous, cruel acts, all in the name of Islam. Over the course of history there have been other atrocities committed in the name of different faiths. Not that it excuses our plague of current barbarism. Frankly I am tired of the political correctness and ass kissing that cause our leaders to not directly confront this scourge that is upon us. If you proclaim yourself as a follower of Muhammad and profess your belief of the peaceful religion of Islam, then you have a dog in this fight. The radical factions are doing more than giving Islam a black eye amongst the people on this planet who believe in the popular version of peaceful existence.
There are those who do not believe in a “God” without consideration as to which version. Yet, they understand what peace is meant to be. We are human and without regard to belief or non belief, we have the same needs as to food, shelter, and desire to succeed and achieve peace and happiness. As a christian, it is my solid belief, that whether you believe in the God that I do, or not, following the ten commandments will get you through life pretty well. All the while treating others fairly as you would care to be treated yourself would make for better days. It is not so much utopia as it is practical. Most people respond well to a smile, a kind word, a helping hand. Do we really enjoy the constant conflict, the awful things we do to each other? It may be too idealistic to think we’ll all set around the campfire enjoying simple songs and s’mores. Our latest foes currently in the news are busy with big threats, and cutting off the heads of our citizens. Not a very peaceful religion in my view. Believe as I do or you will die in a very painful grotesque way. It is this thinking I cannot come to grips with. I am not obsessed with controlling the very beliefs of others. Would I like to share some that we may have in common, absolutely, but if you should disagree with me or I with you, I do not reach for a very large knife or a gun. I would assert that more of us think alike in this regard. My comments here are from my brief experience on the planet, and what I speak against is thousand of years, hundreds of generations of twisted hatred and cruel intentions from those that have been at war too many centuries, too far back to accurately know.
Do we all hold our breathes some on 9/11, and hope to not get some horrible breaking news report? Do we rely on statistics and probability to comfort our fears? Has Homeland Security got this? As Americans, as a nation of peoples are we not thinking of these things in varying degrees? In all reasoning, what’s to stop them from picking a new date to have at it?
I choose to republish some from prior years as I find it important to repeat:
Thirteen years have passed marking the horrible events of 9/11. I have made it a point to comment each year as it passes. One would think that over time, the depth and impact of any event would soften, become more a matter of historical record, and less of an emotional response. I suspect like many of you, like myself felt the day coming on long before it got here. I woke this morning with some measure of sadness, and possibly another level of measure of anger
I freely admit, I don’t “get” the Middle East perspective. Our enemy’s there still hate us, our way of life, and the discussions about it go on forever. It is my hope that on one of these anniversaries that I can write about resolution, and healing. Given the thousands of years of conflict in the region, it may not occur in my lifetime.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.
© 2014 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 – 12th Anniversary
Twelve years have passed marking the horrible events of 9/11. I have made it a point to comment each year as it passes. One would think that over time, the depth and impact of any event would soften, become more a matter of historical record, and less of an emotional response. I suspect like many of you, like myself felt the day coming on long before it got here. I woke this morning with some measure of sadness, and possibly another level of measure of anger.
Twelve years is a significant period of time to take it all in, digest it, and understand the what, whom, why’s of the matter. Despite all that, despite wanting to be a forgiving member of the human race, it boils my blood as an American that there are those that rejoice in the attack and murder of our innocents. I can understand having positive feelings towards the death of those who commit heinous acts, but to be filled with happiness over the deaths of people that were simply going about their daily lives and in varying measures contributing to the greater good is incomprehensible.
They pick Boston, Bengazi, and wherever to commit these cowardly acts. All without justification are inflicted on innocent people. This is done in the absence of honor, heroism, duty to county. It is nothing short of a religious genocide against all non-believers. It is a scourge upon the human race. It is a twisted radical view to think that you must convert all people to your beliefs or kill them.
My anger in this is rooted partly in my ignorance. I was raised by very hard working and loving parents just like many of you. It is/was a blessing, and I never forget that. I was taught to gauge people for their actions, what they choose to do or not to do. Because of my upbringing, I don’t care about your color, your slang, your religion (or no religion). I don’t buy into the race baiting, the religious campaigns, any of that. I care that as I interact with you that you are moral person, that you strive to do good, and to contribute while spending time on the wonderful rock we call planet earth. I don’t care if you are Muslin, Christian, Jew, ect. However use the suffix of radical in combination, I now have a problem.
My ignorance comes from that I cannot relate to killing, maiming someone for other political or religious views. I could opt for discussion, or even arguing, but it stops there. Would I like you to see my god as I do? Most certainly. If not, I will assume that you love yours as much as I do mine. If you are an atheist, fine as long as you believe in doing good in the world (those that I do know are as kind and good natured as you could ask for). I was taught the value of life, and how precious that gift is.
My other reasons for anger is our current administrations ineptness and the dancing around the “radical Muslim” issue. Glad that Bin Laden was taken out, glad that the effort was not dropped between Bush and Obama. Like many of you, I want things to be called as they are, and not worry about offending their sensibilities or feelings. Identify the problem and fix it, we have heard enough, and had it up to our ears with posturing, and leadership via news polls. Current events stirs up many emotions over 9/11, opening up old wounds for our country.
I freely admit, I don’t “get” the Middle East perspective. Our enemy’s there still hate us, our way of life, and the discussions about it go on forever. It is my hope that on one of these anniversaries that I can write about resolution, and healing. Given the thousands of years of conflict in the region, it may not occur in my lifetime.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for our country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. We can all benefit from a little emphasis on acts of kindness.
© 2013 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 – 11th Anniversary
Tomorrow marks the eleventh anniversary of 9/11. A fellow triathlete, Molly English-Bowers posted something yesterday on facebook that gave me cause to think and ponder. She wrote: “Watching 9-11 specials used to just make me sad. Now they also piss me off. So many missed opportunities.” That statement can lead one’s thought in several directions. What if we had gotten Bin Laden earlier, is one direction. The direction I took, and what I found most significant in thought was the loss of “potential”, “opportunities” of each of those who perished. No doubt their families suffered this loss, Very likely the businesses that employed them suffered a significant loss of talent, and capabilities. It is true that as a society, we all suffer from this loss due to the death of all innocent victims. It is hard not to wonder eleven years later, what potential, or what great things or deeds that could have been realized had those planes never left the ground and the threat averted. All too often “the good die young”
Each year I have commented on this occasion, and I find it prudent to repeat some of it here, as it accurately describes my thoughts:
Like many of my fellow runners, triathletes, and outdoorsmen, I am immersed in preparation for another season of racing, chasing wild turkeys, whitetails, and a ruffed grouse or two. I get to worry about lessor things. I have no doubt that my little worries would be considered things to dream about while camping out in a sand bunker in the Middle East. I grew up understanding and appreciating what our military does. It is not easy for most military families. The wars continue, many are now coming home. Many have come home to their final resting place. Many that serve us remain. As with all wars, young men and women give the ultimate sacrifice to our country, and afford us the freedoms we have.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you toe up on the start line of your favorite road race or triathlon or enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for their country.
Along with counting your blessings, say a prayer for all innocent victims, and that you do something on your part to make the world just a little bit better for those around you. With all the buzz these days about “cloud” this, and “cloud” that, A little emphasis on acts of kindness as a function of “cloud” culture wouldn’t hurt.
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
9/11 – A Decade of Honoring & Remembrance
Ten years………… it has passed by so quickly. Having passed the half centurion milestone, I find my perspective of time compresses more than I care to admit. Each 9/11 since that horrific event, has at least for myself, been a day of mourning for those lost that day, and those who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the ensuing wars that followed. I am most thankful that we have not suffered from a similar event since then. I have little doubt that given the chance, there are those that label many of us as ‘infidels’ would end my life by “any means necessary.” Of course I speak of those of extreme radical beliefs. Many sins are committed in the name of an extreme religious viewpoint. Throughout history, such atrocities are well documented. Such hatred of other persons, beliefs, and religions, are obscene, and offensive. Sadly none of this has gone away. The threat remains.
During the ten year anniversary we can have a small sigh of relief in knowing Bin Laden has been dealt with, much akin to “the wicked witch is dead!” One less evil man walks the earth, and a measure of justice has been served. To our military we owe our thanks for their perseverance and professionalism, and to both administrations for seeing it through. Sadly, cutting the head of this snake will be cause to grow another. Terrorism is a reality we face.
Each year I have commented on this occasion, and I find it prudent to repeat some of it here, as it accurately describes my thoughts:
Like many of my fellow outdoorsmen, I am immersed in preparation for another season of chasing wild turkeys, whitetails, and a ruffed grouse or two. I get to worry about lessor things. I have no doubt that my little worries would be considered things to dream about while camping out in a sand bunker in the Middle East. I grew up understanding and appreciating what our military does. It is not easy for most military families. The wars continue, many are now coming home. Many have come home to their final resting place. Many that serve us remain. As with all wars, young men and women give the ultimate sacrifice to our country, and afford us the freedoms we have.
Especially while watching the coverage this past week. I found myself emotionally affected. As one of the most significant events in my lifetime, it is my hope that nothing like this or worse ever comes our way again.
Each anniversary of 9/11, my thoughts returned to two fellow NWTF members Cynthia Giugliano & Walter Weaver that we lost that day. A memorial webpage can be found at http://www.turkey-talk.com/9_11_01_memorial.htm.
As you enjoy another fall season hunting our nation’s forests, fishing the lakes and streams of our great land, I ask that each of you give thought to those that serve us. In your travels I ask that you take the time to thank those that serve us, and continue to support what they do for their country.
© 2011 Mike Joyner- Joyner Outdoor Media
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