It Could Have All Been Different
I'm up to chapter 16 in the book, Big Russ and Me by Tim Russert, the former anchor for the TV program, "Meet the Press." The opening chapters are fascinating, as Tim recounts his father's WWII experience, and what he had subsequently learned about his Dad's military service over the years. It's truly a "Greatest Generation" story. Tim Russert knew very little about his Dad's time in the Army Air Corps, because his Dad wasn't quick to talk about it.
Later in life, Tim Russert had the opportunity to travel worldwide, working both in politics and as a news anchor/TV personality. He had the opportunity to see the places where the tide of history had shifted as a result of conflict, aggression, death, and countless battles. Tim recalled his Dad saying, "When I look back on it now, it was worth giving up three years of my life rather than be ruled by someone like Hitler."
Tim Russert went on to say, "If that scenario sounds improbable half a century later, it's only because our side won the war. It's easy to forget that Germany and Japan were mighty adversaries, and that when World War II began, America was almost totally unprepared for combat. Had events occurred in a slightly different way, we would be living today in a vastly different world." (Big Russ & Me, p. 18)
I wonder how our actions today will impact the world's tomorrow. What sacrifices should be made today -- right now -- in order to have a better tomorrow. Would we be willing to make those sacrifices? Or will I miss the opportunity, just like I ignore going to the gym for one more day? I don't know. But I'm thankful for the people who have made me who I am, and who have helped me to experience beauty in this world. I'm deeply appreciative of the sacrifices that have given me freedom, health, and prosperity. Thank you, Grandma and Grandpa. Thank you, Mom and Dad. Thank you, Marianne. Thanks for the people at home who have made sacrifices to allow me to serve the Lord. I pray it makes a difference.