Saluting Wounded Women Warriors

Very rarely do I read a book that moves me to tears repeatedly. I'm a voracious reader and have read my fair share of good books, but last night I read one that truly moved me. I could not put it down nor would the tears stop. We hear about wounded vets, and the price they pay to protect and preserve our freedom, but having never personally had the privilege of meeting one, it can be an abstract idea. Kristin Hannah changed that for me. Her book Home Front is a gritty, extraordinary glimpse into the true cost of freedom for both those who serve and those who love them. It is the story of Jolene Z and her best friend Tami who are helicopter pilots serving in the reserves when they are called back to active duty in Iraq. It follows them and their families during their one year of duty in dangerous, difficult situations and gives us a firsthand glimpse of what life is like for all involved.

It gave me a lot to think about. There are men and women daily putting their lives on the line because they love our country. The price is high. Here's a link to the faces of women who have lost their lives while serving the USA and gave the ultimate sacrifice. But there is another list that is much longer- the women who are severely wounded and whose lives will never be the same after completing their tour of duty. Today, I am newly humbled and grateful. So this is my salute to those who serve day in and day out, never looking for a reward besides the privilege of serving and defending our wonderful country. It is also a salute to those who pay the price of sending those they love dearly off to combat, not knowing if they will return safely or not.

I want to do something, but don't know who to contact. If you know of an organization that does fundraisers or offers support services to women vets, would you comment below? This country owes them a huge debt- as do I. Looking for something tangible to do? Here's a list of seven ways to say give back to our vets.

Before ending this post, I'd like to say thank you to a special lady who inspires so many of us- Lori Anderson.  One day I hope to meet her in person and thank her for her service to our country. I'd also like to thank Jen Judd who is actively serving. They share their love of beauty and beads with us and motivate us to reach for bigger things.

"Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends." John 15:13
Thank you, women warriors. Here's wishing you and yours dashes of grace and splashes of joy.