Aging comes with its share of aches and pains. It was ice pack night at our house rather than “Date Night.” My wife had a cold compress on her jaw after some minor oral surgery yesterday evening, while I used a package of frozen corn on my lower back. We watched the movie, “Isn’t It Romantic?” just to add to the whole experience. I then slept with the heating pad and paid a visit to the chiropractor. In my case, it’s been a reoccurring issue, but the pain has been particularly intense these past few days prior to the doctor visit. The funny thing is that it doesn’t bother me at all when I run but rather when I sit. I also can’t pinpoint why or how it happened? At least my wife’s pain has an explanation.

I’m also feeling the emotional pain of the D-Day survivors, as we honor the 75th anniversary. I have the little glass bottle of beach sand from Omaha Beach on my desk, a souvenir of our trip there two years ago. All the television coverage has brought back the memories of the grave losses in those epic battles. Freedom has its price, and I’m thankful to those who made supreme sacrifices for our country. My father was there but never talked about it. This is why I was overwhelmed with emotion when I stepped on that beach. It was as if I was surrounded by ghosts laid to rest in the pristine cemeteries that serve as a memorial to their heroism.

It’s hard to feel sorry for my minor aches and pains when put it in perspective. There are five primary shows to watch today in honor of the occasion: “Saving Private Ryan,” “The Longest Day,” “Band of Brothers,” “D-Day,” and “The War: Ken Burns Episode 4 – Pride of our Nation.” I chose “Band of Brothers” to view today. It makes all aches and pains seem silly in comparison. Thank You For Your Service!