Badge of Courage

My badge of courage
I wear it with pride.
The signs of it are in every stride.

My hair has turned gray
My hands have lost their strength
but thank the good Lord I still have my teeth!

My back hurts when I stand
My knees crack and creak
I have bags under my eyes
and my bladder seems to have sprung a leak!

My vision diminishes with each year that passes.
Now where is it I put my glasses?
Oh yes, over there by my easy chair.
I left them there when I was looking for my hair.

What?  What's that you say?
You don't think I am too old to play?
You are right!  I am not old!
My strength comes each day.
Sometimes more easily than others
simply because it's about my  sisters and brothers.
For if I am too wrapped up in myself
who will be there for them just because I don't feel up to par?
My badge of courage has not come as a result of slackness.
Rather, it came as a result of perpetual regard.

My badge of courage,  I wear it with pride.

Now watch me walk with unequaled stride!   

When we no longer have all the same attributes we had as children, teenagers,or  young adults we tend to start making excuses and around-to-its (Well, you know, when I get "around-to-it") as to why we cannot help our brothers, sisters, and friends.  You may be tired.  They are probably more tired.  Maybe you are depressed.  Most likely they have been depressed for quite sometime just waiting on that special someone to come by.  Are you lonely?  Are you friendless?  When is the last time you did something for someone just because you could?  Maybe it was someone you didn't even know.  What did you do today that made a difference?  I have no money you say?  It doesn't take money to make a difference in someones life.  I have no time you say?  Really?  How much time did you spend on the computer, phone, texting, or sleeping?  Our life is all about our priorities.  The lessons we learn that sometimes show themselves through our "Badges of Courage" allow us to help others as we go along.  Your priorities will be reflected in your daily activities, conversations and actions.  Wear your Badge of Courage with pride and please do not use it as a tool in which to hide.

Word of the Day
Courage =  The quality of mind or spirit that enables a person to face difficulty, danger, pain,        
etc., without fear
To have the courage of one's convictions, to act in accordance with one's beliefs,                                 especially in spite of criticism.