Saturday, September 20, 2008

IPG Showed up At Sturgis...

I have a story from Sturgis that I've gone back and forth about sharing because I don't want anyone to think I am trying to get a pat on the back or comments on how nice I am. I want to tell it because I want people to realize that a small act of kindness and acknowledgement can go a long way.

Dan and I were wandering through all of the vendors in Sturgis to try to find a better deal on a shirt that Dan wanted to get. As we entered one of the vendor tents I spotted a gentleman standing off to the side, seeming like he'd love to be anywhere but there. As I observed him more I noticed that on his vest were patches that read Vietnam Veteran, etc. It appeared that maybe he was working there. He didn't talk to anyone unless they asked him a question and he just had this sad look about him. We had worked our way over to this table that was near where he was standing. I got this feeling in my heart that I wanted to say something to him. I walked over to him and took his hand in mine. I looked directly into his eyes and he gave me this very startled look like, what the hell lady! I said to him...Sir, thank you very much for the service that you gave to our country. I appreciate all you sacrificed. He looked back at me and said...Wow, you are welcome. I squeezed his hand ever so lightly and walked away.

As Dan paid for the shirt he wanted, I observed this man again. He went from lurking to the side of the tent, to walking up to people and talking to them in a matter of a couple minutes. And the best part about it, he had a smile on his face.

The point of my story is that if you feel something in your heart do it, say it. The feeling that you have could uplift someones spirit and help them through the day. I guess I'm all about supporting our real heroes. The ones that put their lives on the line for our freedom. As D-Day has said a couple times...maybe I should change my name to Iowa Patriot Girl. I just have such a love and respect for our military that every chance I get I tell them how much I do appreciate them. I think my whole thing is, lift up those that are real heroes, they need to know what they are doing or did is that important!

14 comments:

Anonymous said...

Pay it forward! Cool! A lesson for each of us. Thanks.

One Harley Rider said...

Very touching story - you are correct. No matter how anyone ever feels about any war, we should never blame or forget those who served. Thanks

Ann said...

Amen, Steph! I bet you made his day!

Every time I see one of our vets (aka heroes) I thank them for their service to our country and for my freedom. I've never been shunned for doing it. They appreciate hearing those words.

B.B. said...

That's awesome. I try to thank vets when I can, the thing that makes me sad is when they seem surprised. Don't get me wrong, I appreciate their humility, but it should be something they are told often. I'm glad you decided to share that story with us.

Dean "D-Day" said...

(With a tear in my eye) Thanks for remembering those who sometimes get forgotten and honoring them with your gentle respect. I would expect no less from you.

Unknown said...

It is amazing how one random act of kindenss seems to spread! Good form!

FLHX_Dave said...

I don't hold hands (lol), but I do thank the troops whenever I get a chance. Some think I am a nutcase and others give me the response you got. I could care less about the response I get from them. I know why I did it.

Screw not posting because you might think people you were patting yourself on the back. Here is the difference. You said thanks because you were moved to. Not because you thought it would make you look good. If I thought you did it because it was making you look good then I would tell you to shove this post up your ass.

Instead, you should shove this post in people's faces in hopes of making them think more often. Most folks can see beyond themselves. Now maybe they will look a bit further next time they are out. ok, ok...I'll shut up now.

Lady R (Di) said...

Next June I will be in Dubuque for my parents 5oth Anniversary party. I'm telling you this so we can make sure we meet. You are a wonderful person and thank you for posting this story. You caring means a lot. Your heart is in the right place and thanks for leading us by your example!
Way to go IPG!

IHG said...

Ok...I'm glad I shared this after all! Thanks for the responses. You are all great people...

Lady R...June...you are on!!! :)

Kathleen Jennette said...

Being a patriotic person in this country is the best thing we can do as American citizens! Good for you. We should be reminded to make a point of saying thank you. We get to ride free in America because of the Vets! You make me proud girl!

Mr. Motorcycle said...

I'm proud to know and associate with folks like you!

Mimi said...

Very cool IHG! You're a thoughtful and caring person and have a BIG heart <3 Love ya!

Ronman said...

Lead on sister lead on. You are such a great example for all of us Stephanie.

Ronman

Anonymous said...

All the more important a gesture because this is the generation of veterans who were not only NOT welcomed home, but were outright disrespected when they returned to the US. Our Viet Nam veterans answered their country's call with honor - those of you who spit on them and otherwise denegrated them should be ashamed. Your comment to this veteran was a lovely gesture, Stephanie. It's likely he never had anyone speak the words, "Welcome Home," let alone "Thank you." Good for you! ~ Janet