You were the rebel, the prisoner, the fighter for a people without rights,
a people who fought valiantly and with hopes and visions of equality.

Such a pity, the greater population of the world lived in ignorance
and denial of the existence of the endless fight and plight of a people.

War in the streets, the blood and bodies of men, women and children
was common sight witnessed and price paid to gain basic rights of human.

After over a quarter of a century and pressures building to gain your freedom;
unconditionally, you arose like the phoenix and emerged to greet sunlight.  

A continuing mission of freedom and liberation of a people oppressed,
remained upper most in the heart and mind of one who would not rest.

You emerged from the darkness, seeing the walls of apartheid standing,
standing strong against your beliefs and be architect of it's destruction.

Who could foresee that the island with bars housing a man with resolve
would foster a journey of a prisoner to wise and great leader of a people?

Retailers hope to net profits with the overlapping of holiday seasons.
Thanksgiving is yet to be history; but, out comes the Christmas trimmings.
No big surprise seeing holiday reminders arriving and filling mail box,
comes with pre-season, this early blitz of commercials on tv now the net.

Early arrival of holiday brings bell ringers standing between shopper's exit,
a failure to repeat and repeat donations, brings looks of extreme displeasure.
Each and every time you enter or exit discount, drug, and many retail stores,
shoppers face not only bell ringers; but, 365 days donate at register requests.

Most can't equal billion dollar give aways by Bill and Melinda Gates' circle.
Most work extremely hard and donate but also choose to live on budgets.
I donate and have nothing against charities; but, how much should one give?
Retailers, putting shoppers on the spot, asking for donations upon check out?

Never a pinch penny when it comes to sharing when there's an "actual" need,
generosity is always a personal choice, I let guilt not be my companion in giving.
Multiple donations to canister's of amnesiac holiday bell ringers? Wont happen!
Nothing against legit charities; but, giving until you're broke, you "will" be needy.

Up there as top of two best memories of my life.......Great day you fell into my arms.  
[Smiles]....You know without my posting what line one eludes to....[Winks & Smiles]  
Loved holding you close and hearing that soft unforgettable infectious laugh.
No shocker here......I loved my arms about you far longer than necessary.
You Pet......never kept me guessing about the s'happening in that beautiful mind.
Always was nice and refreshing never having to ask how you felt.....you told me.
Well......minus when you stole away in the middle of the night while I was sleeping.
Understood after reading that note and your tearful call.....know you still loved me.
The most unforgettable day of my life was me putting calls on hold, us talking for hours
and you standing at your full lack of height looking up at me with those gorgeous eyes.
Forgot my own name when smiling you asked me to picnic in a park.....Could not refuse!!!
There's nothing sexier than getting an invite anywhere from confident lady you Betty.
I remember the place, the time, what you wearing and every detail of that day we met.
It's impossible for any man to forget anything about the lady he once and still loves.

From American shores bordering the Pacific Ocean to the Atlantic and beyond,
I'm very proud to join the tribute and celebration of Veterans both dead and alive.
You've served this country, our friends and neighbors, both domestic and abroad,
giving so much of yourselves without selfish thought or huge financial rewards.
Joining the salute of "all" Veterans and no words could ever hope to convey gratitude
felt by me and all who appreciate and honor your sacrifice and a job so well done.