Mar

30

A Quiet Place to Wait

Filed Under American Patriotism 

phoenix-military-21It was early Friday morning.  We were waiting in the Phoenix airport to board our flight back to Colorado after spending a week in Sedona.  We went there to hike, rest, and get back to nature.  The recuperation was something we needed after spending so much time on finishing our book and the grueling task of trying to market it to the public. 

Writing a book is one thing, but promoting it is something even more challenging.  Something we never fully comprehended. Marketing means you constantly have to be talking about a topic that you would rather put behind you.  It is a necessary part of the book publishing process; yet, we truly wished there was a simpler way to get our book out there. 

As we sat in the main terminal of Sky Harbor International Airport eating our light breakfast, we noticed a sign pointing to the second floor offices that read, Phoenix Military & Veterans Hospitality Room.  Interesting.  We wondered what a “hospitality room” for veterans looked like in an airport, so we decided to investigate.  What a special place for military personnel and their families. The lounge had several computers for individuals to catch up on their e-mail.  There were rooms full of books on various military topics, including PTSD.  Children could play in a section close by filled with colorful beanbag chairs, games, puzzles, and activities that would help fill the time as families waited for connecting flights.  A huge television set up with video games and DVDs offered entertainment of another source.  A second large TV occupied a different area with several comfy reclining chairs and a small coach. On occasion, when an individual had to spend the night, a volunteer stayed with him or her for company.  In addition to all the amenities, the Hospitality Center had an area filled with free snacks.  Here one could munch on a variety of candies, popcorn, soups, soft drinks or a have a cup of hot coffee and tea.  The entire area was set-up to make the time spent at the airport more comfortable for military personnel and their families. 

All of the amenities were great, yet, the best part of the Center was the volunteers – fellow veterans who only wanted to do something to support other military personnel.  They were proud of their unique center.  Their only motivation was to make a small difference.  They certainly are doing that and far more! 

Comments

One Response to “A Quiet Place to Wait”

  1. Molly Farrell on December 10th, 2009 2:14 pm

    Cheers for the great information – I loved reading it! I always enjoy looking at this blog.