Amy M. Schaefer
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From the Front Porch

I am an "accidental blogger". When I launched my writing career in March of 2014, one of the things that I decided to include was my journaling, which I have always found to be a comforting and therapeutic endeavor.  It was a big risk to open myself up in such a public forum, but it has taught me that, for the most part, we share far more experiences than we think. It's comforting to know I'm not alone!  (*the "Button Text" is the link to my first novel)
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Memorial Day Message From One of My Heroes

5/26/2014

2 Comments

 
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"One person can make a difference, and everyone should try." --John F. Kennedy

Ya-ya's are sisters of the heart and most of mine are connected in some way to the military. Several of my ya-yas are spouses of active duty or retired military members, or they, themselves, wear/have worn the uniform. Tammy, a nurse and Lt. Colonel in the USAF is among that group. She is a tough bundle of energy with a beautiful smile, an infectious laugh, and a heart of gold. I first met her in Arizona when she and my husband were both stationed at Luke Air Force Base. Her whirlwind personality caught me up in its embrace and I am so thankful that it did. She is one of those pieces that fit into my life-puzzle perfectly! I asked her to share her thoughts on her military career and wept when I read her reply.

I prompted--"Tammy, tell me the thoughts that come to mind FIRST when you think about your career---the images you can call up without having to think about it and the ones that will stick with you well after you retire."

Her response: The honor and privilege to be the 1% that chose to serve, chose to represent, chose to continue to defend the rights of others without judgement or prejudice. The tears that well up with a flag-draped casket or the National Anthem or military wedding, or homecoming always invoke the deepest emotion of gratitude for those intangibles and non-material experiences that few will ever appreciate. I can't express the brotherhood/sisterhood between branches and countries sharing a mission--it is inexplicable how race, religion, culture, gender, and sexual preference are irrelevant, and the simplicity and beauty of a unified front is so powerful! It isn't about women or men, it's about purpose and integrity and service--all for the greater good, despite the cost. Biggest thing: NO REGRETS!

Tammy, you are a gift in my life, the lives of everyone else that you touch, and to our Nation. Thank you for your service!


*Image from pinterest.com.




2 Comments
Tammy
6/3/2014 03:12:17 am

Thank you my dearest sister! Your words are kind, your support unconditional and your friendship is priceless...behind our Nation's defense are to families of sacrifice and honor....a salute to you and all that support our nation...

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Amy M. Schaefer
6/3/2014 09:14:44 am

I love you, lady.

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    About The Author

    I grew up in rural North Carolina. When I was only nineteen, I moved away and became a military wife. My only aspiration at that tender time in my life was to create an adult life that "fixed" all of the "injustices" of my childhood. Secretly, however, I wanted to reach for the sky! I wanted to be a writer and find ways to "save the world" (my mother used to say, "You have Save the World Syndrome".). Mostly, I wanted to matter.

    Since then, I have learned to reach well beyond what I ever dared to think was possible. I've learned not to allow fear to stop me from whatever future I want to create!

    What keeps me grounded? My Tribe! What provides the wind beneath my wings? A well of reserves filled with unstoppable passion!

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  • Amy M. Schaefer, Writer
  • Blog: From the Front Porch
  • Novels
  • Short Stories
    • Children's Books
  • About the Author
  • Contact
  • Photo & Art Gallery