To the Editor:

My mother is a truck driver who drives from NC to the west coast and back each week. She wrote this poem to honor the troops who are serving this country from one coast to the other and was hoping that you would publish it this week as a small token of appreciation for their service, especially during the holidays. Have a wonderful Holiday!

Awaiting Their Return

To our troops who are scattered in many foreign lands

Especially this time of year, thoughts of home are close at hand

Our Christmas prayer for all of you wherever you may be

Is that God will keep you safe, from the mountains to the seas

In the snow covered mountains or the hot desert sands

May they feel the mighty power, of Gods protective hand

May he reach beneath the stars and fill their hearts with peace

And all the joys of the season upon their life release

If Christmas blues should cover their khaki browns and greens

Fill their minds with the Christmas past like a movie screen

May memories of yesteryears restore their broken spirit

Let every Christmas carol bring them joy when they hear it

With each Christmas card received and every package too

May the love from home be felt and their faith in you renewed

With every tear dimmed eye give them hope we pray

That theyll soon return to us to share many Christmas days

Cheryl Haynes