I needed some things but I hate to shop

so I was off to the mall to do it in one stop

I pulled into the parking lot just behind a van

moving quite slowly and ruining my plan

To get in quick and get out the same

before the start of the football game

The van turned into a handicapped space

and I rushed on by to find my own place

I parked my car and moved toward the mall

wanting to get done and get back to football

I slowed my stride as I passed the van

watching a young wife helping her man

She pushed away her long blonde hair

and eased her husband into the chair

He was a strong looking man who had done his part

For displayed on his license plate was a purple heart

Suddenly I thought of what it meant to be free

and that he lost his legs fighting for me

I was no longer in the hurry and football seemed bland

because I was in the presence of a real man

I timed my pace rushing no more

so I could be there to hold the door

He said thanks as his wife pushed him through

I smiled and nodded and in my heart I knew

That we should he thanking our veterans for being willing to serve

And to give them the honor that they truly deserve

I think we should each find a way

to thank a veteran on Veteran’s Day