GIG LIJNE
By Marsha M. Brown
There are two big and important topics I want to talk with you about in this GIG LINE. The first of which is about your influence and the positive impact you can have on altering the lives of others for the good…or not.
Every day I research materials in books, magazines and over the Internet in preparation for writing this column. In doing so recently, I stumbled across an advertisement whereby a senior veteran was expressing his thoughts…and when a veteran speaks…I listen! I stopped in my tracks, paid attention and absorbed what he had to say. In only minutes he encapsulated the very essence of why our fighting men and women do what they do and the power that each of them (and all of us) have to change the world.
The gentlemen reflected on history and the loss of our soldiers over the years through battle and sacrifice. The visuals that accompanied his ‘talk’ vividly got the point across and his steady matter-of-fact voice enveloped me. What he shared about his personal military experience was supported by the engraving on his face…lines that told more than words ever could…and the things of which he spoke touched my heart…but more than that…my head…and my brain. This gentleman and veteran was all business. At the end of his sincere plea he made a final comment that hit me square on the head and in only a few words…the picture was clear. In essence…we have the biggest weapon for protection in the world…our VOTE.
Now folks…let’s be frank…let’s speak the truth and not pull any punches. By this time of year…we’re sick of political ads, signs, flyers and enormous postcards for one candidate or the other that flood our mailbox…right? And even though we know it’s the ‘nature of the beast’ as they say and we expect it, we’re still always glad when it’s over…right? But listen…no matter what…a vote isn’t just a boring old task we have to deal with from time to time…its our means of protection, our armor; our defense against things we disagree with…and a vote is our safeguard and security toward the future. No doubt, veterans know that more than anybody.
What that man said, I’ll never forget…nor will I ever look at voting in the same way again…because he was right. And before I get off this soap box that I’m standing on, let me say this…no matter on which platform you stand; how you’re registered; which political party you support (if you’re affiliated with one or the other), please make your opinion count…no one will ever know who you chose on the touch screen or ballot card…but vote, please. For goodness sake people utilize the freedom we have as Americans and get out and vote on Tuesday, November 5th. From this moment on, if you haven’t already, choose to stand up for the candidate you feel will best help our communities, our state and our nation overall…do it…vote for them…do it for yourselves, do it for those you love and do it for the little ones who look up to you for guidance, structure and care in their lives. If you don’t or can’t drive yourself to the polls, call family, a friend or your Pastor…but for goodness sake call somebody to help you exercise the right our veterans have fought for and get to the polls. If you’re able to get transportation to the polls but cannot ambulate inside to vote, have someone ring the bell for you and so a Board of Elections official or appointee can provide curbside assistance. As I understand it, the polls are open Tuesday, November 5th starting at 6:30 AM until 7:30 PM. Make your sacrifices, sweat and tears count for our country with each election and for as long as you live. In my opinion, only then will you or any of us have the right to complain if the outcome is disappointing or joyous and only then will you know that you have done your best. Not only is our future in our own hands but it’s in the hands of all of those asking for your vote…remember that and after you consider your options carefully, pray about it, then…get out and do it…VOTE!
NEWSFLASH! Next Saturday, November 8, 2014 – 7:00 PM we’ll be looking for you at a special and unique ‘SALUTE TO VETRANS’ event. This year, it’ll offer surprises with a twist! The annual event hosted by Manteo First Assembly, (812 Wingina St., across from Outer Banks Hotline – Manteo) is different, new and it includes a drama with a cast of almost 40 people of all ages. Being intricately involved in its production, I’m confident you’ll enjoy it!
In addition to hearing enthusiastic musical renditions robustly performed by the tiniest of patriots …you’ll see military ceremonies, great opening entertainment and you’ll hear information about a week of veteran events that will follow but, you’ll also see an original play, written especially for this event called ‘Brotherhood’. It involves a cast of about 40 people and it tells the story of three soldiers who begin as strangers ultimately ending up as inseparable buddies facing the heartaches of war together. Not only are the actors dedicated to doing their best for you…our veterans…but the primary prop that Pastor Steve Smith and others have built will knock your socks off! Many of the actors are veterans themselves; they’re retirees, veterans of foreign wars and they represent various military branches…so come for their sake too because they’ve put their heart in it.
PLEASE, PLEASE COME…for goodness sake…DON’T MISS THIS ONE! It will start promptly at 7PM, so come early and pick your seat. There is NO admission fee and the program/play will last about 1.5 hrs. Also, the church is planning to have available child care on site. No excuses folks! This is ‘for you’…(another aspect of the play)…come and see what I mean by that first hand. If you can still wear your uniform, by all means WEAR IT! Let the audience see your accomplishments, achievements and acknowledge what you’ve been through serving our country. Don’t be shy!! You are why the ‘SALUTE’ takes place. Wear your veteran T-shirts, hats, pins and whatever else you want…just COME & CELEBRATE OUR MILITARY WITH US…OK?
My sweetie pie and I will be looking for each of you. Until then, be happy, be safe and be proud…you are our heroes and we love you very much! Don’t forget to vote…for the right reasons and for the best candidate. Call us if we can be of help, My cell: (252) 202-2058. We love and care about each and every one of you. God bless you and your family and please remember to stay tuned…