The Empty Chair
No tears can fall from my eyes.
So, why does my heart ache?
Could it be, the empty chair?
I shouldn’t whine.
Many, no longer have their soldiers with whom they dine.
The empty chair, always there.
Thanksgiving is a day to pause and reflect on all we are grateful for.
For me, Thanksgiving, is every day.
Every day I’m grateful for all who have served us.
Veterans, brave souls.
I’m grateful for all who are serving.
I want to tell my son how much I miss him.
He doesn’t want me to be sad.
I want to hear his laughter.
Life is so hard over there.
He never complains.
I do, about the damn empty chair.
Although I am grateful for much,
I will be most grateful for the day the empty chair,
is empty no more.
by Karen Estrada (@milhealth)
MilitaryConnection.com is proud to be working with MilitaryHealthMatters.org This is a poignant poem written by Karen Estrada when her son was away during the holidays on his 5th deployment to Afghanistan. This poem provides all of us a glimpse of the sacrifices made by those who serve and their loved ones. The families of our fallen carry this grief during all holidays with their own “Empty Chair”. Veterans Day has past but let us remember those who serve our nation and their families 24/7. Next time you see a soldier, try a random act of kindness. Perhaps thank them for their service, buy them a cup of coffee or even pick up their check if you are able. Remember we are able to live the lives we live in the greatest nation in the world because of the sacrifices of less than one percent.
