Helping troops, even if you don't like the war!

This post may seem controversial to some. I myself believe in love and peace, not in war. Having said that, two of my sons are currently serving in the U.S. Army, my husband served in the Air Force, and I have several other connections to people who are either currently serving or have served as well. While I don't want any wars happening, I do believe in loving and helping people,
no matter what!

This morning I discovered via a new twitter friend, Terrie Wurzbacher, a wonderfully written blog by Mike Sweezy on blogger called Reintegration Program. Helping our troops return home. This blog describes actual experiences.

Through this connection, I also discovered an organization called HeartsAcrosstheMiles .org which supports the troops. Their tag line is Serving Our Deployed Troops: Until they All Come Home. Their goal is to make sure that no Service Member goes to mail call only to feel forgotten. www.heartsacrossthemiles.org/

Since I know so many people who have served, they have shared with me that it is very lonely both when first in training away from home, as well as while being stationed in a foreign land. Organizations and people who personally help in this area make a real difference to morale. Items sent are gratefully appreciated by the men and women who receive them.

The HeartsAcrossheMiles.org website has several donation categories to help in various ways.
Suggestions on giving items for fun, practical and useful items and needs, sending food, sending to men, women, and those military members who are injured are all listed. There is even a category for sending items for Iraqi and Afghani children as well.

Letter, photos, and cards of encouragement are much appreciated by our military members. So are the toys for the children, sunblock, food treats, calling cards, and such simple things as shampoo.
If you would like to get involved, and help others in this way, please do check out the website I mentioned above.

I also discovered a site that lists military aid and assistance organizations that is full of information and resources. It is located at:
http://today.msnbc.msn.com/id/6843832/

We are all human beings living on the same planet no matter what specific country we live in.
I feel strongly that helping others both in our local community as well as those who could use our assistance but who happen to live in a different country, and even those who may be doing or have done things that don't agree with our values and beliefs is the right thing to do.

The Golden Rule is something I try to live my life by. I encourage you to do that too.
"Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."