Dear Friend,
Memorial Day. Some of my favorite memories growing up was celebrating with my father’s family at our holiday cookouts. Our family was very wild and a bit off- which probably doesn’t surprise you if you know me at all. You would find burgers, hot dogs, my dad’s fresh fried fish and grandma’s mac-n-cheese. That was my favorite! It was so good, but the recipe used so much cheddar that any bystander caught unprepared would leave their digestive system blocked for the next week after. We would party until fireworks dotted the early night sky and then head home exhausted, falling asleep immediately in the car on the way.
To the countless soldiers who have fought and served our country, I want to thank you from the bottom of my soul for your sacrifices and commitment that allows us civilians to live freely and safely. As an Army brat, I know all too well the thankless demands required of our service men and women. YOU are truly heroes.
This Memorial Day is a little different for me. I am going to honestly say that this year I am a bit more nervous than usual. We are about to embark on our Journey Home Bus Tour around the country, sharing our message of love and hope in our efforts to end homelessness for our community. We will be going to states and places I have never been, meeting new people and trying new things. As excited as we are about this, there is still this unease around some of the attitudes we see in our country. It does make me a little fearful. But as we are encouraged to remember on such holidays like Memorial Day, some causes are worth fighting for- no matter who we are.
Please find a few moments in your day to give thanks for the rights we share, the lives losts to ensure those freedoms, and your role you play in our fight making this country a better place for all of us. Thank you for joining in our battle against homelessness.
Your Fan,
Jacob Reide Jennings