A recent trip to the “city” allowed my son and I to stop by the local Cabela’s store and browse around. Stopping there is something we try to do every time we are nearby. I don’t know many outdoorsmen who wouldn’t do the same. I needed a few jig heads and a rod tip repair kit (don’t ask).
It was just this past Tuesday – the week leading up to Memorial Day.
I noticed something unusual near the front of the store by the entrance. At first I almost passed by without pausing, but something caught my attention and I stopped.
It was a “missing man” table.
The Missing Man table.
I took a minute to soak it in, look at all the elements represented on the table as well as read the description.
Thank you, Cabela’s, for the extra effort in honoring Memorial Day with more than just another sale!
Though not a veteran myself, I hold those who serve in high regard and am pleased when I see others do the same. Memorial Day is for honoring those who have gone before regardless of our political feelings.
I have taken the liberty of transcribing the text from the photo of their description so that you can read it more easily.
Missing Man Table (emphasis mine)
This table, set for one, is small, symbolizing those who have not returned from war, but who have not been forgotten.
The table is round to show our everlasting concern for our missing men and women.
The tablecloth is white, symbolizing the purity of their motives when answering the call of duty.
The single red rose in a vase reminds us of the life of each of the missing, and their loved ones and friends of these Americans who keep the faith, awaiting answers.
The vase is tied with a red ribbon, a symbol of our continued determination to account for our missing.
A slice of lemon on the bread plate is to remind us of the bitter fate of those captured and missing in a a foreign land.
A pinch of salt symbolizes the terms endured by those missing and their families who seek answers.
The Bible represents the strength gained through faith to sustain those lost from our country, founded as one nation under God.
The glass is inverted to symbolize their inability to share a toast with us.
The candle is reminiscent of the light of hope which live in our hearts to illuminate their way home, away from their captors, to the open arms of a grateful nation.
The chair is empty – they are missing.
Let us pray to the supreme commander that all of our comrades will soon be back within our ranks.
Let us remember and never forget their sacrifices.
May God forever watch over them and protect them and their families.
Credit: Cabela’s Veterans Employee Resource Group
