This week's featured #TakingCareThurs book, America's White Table, by Margot Theis Raven, is a book that helps us remember those that have served and given their lives for our country. The "white table" is a little-known tradition that honors members of the armed forces that are held prisoners of war or are missing in action. The tradition originated during the Vietnam War and is a shared experience that helps us understand the sacrifice these men and women have made for our country.
The small table is set with a white cloth to represent the soldier's pure heart. A lemon slice and grains of salt are placed on the table to show the captive soldier's bitter fate and the tears of their loved ones. A black napkin is placed on the table to represent sorrow and the glass is turned over for a meal that won't ever be eaten. A white candle adorns the table as a symbol of peace and finally, a red rose is placed in a vase tied with a ribbon to symbolize hope.
It's just a little white table.... but I looked at it all dinner long, and in the quiet inside me I could almost hear the silent soldiers of the empty chair saying:
Remember us, please....
Then in the salt on the little white table...."I traced in the grains of their families' tears - what each man and woman who serves America is to me, a...... HERO."
This is a beautifully written and illustrated book that helps our young people understand the importance of honoring our veterans and feeling gratitude during this month of remembrance.
Margot Theis Raven - America's White Table
You are not forgotten
So long as there is one left in whom your memory remains.