Tuesday, December 06, 2011

A war time Christmas

Today's quote comes from Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand. Her book tells of a young Olympian who is taken as a prisoner of war during World War II. Not only did I choose this passage because of the sentiment within the context of the the book, but also to take a moment to honour those who will be away from their families this Christmas because they are serving their countries.

It is not too late to join in the tour this year. You can still sign up at the sign up post.

From page 215 of Unbroken by Laura Hillenbrand

In December 1943, the family prepared to celebrate their first Christmas without Louie. The mailman knocked at the door each day to deliver a harvest of cards and letters, most of them offering sympathy. The holiday tree was strung with popcorn and cranberries, and beneath it sat a collection of gifts for Louie. The gifts would be tucked away in the belief that one day, Louie would come home to open them himself.

Louise bought a little Christmas card depicting a cherub in a red dress blowing a horn as she stood surrounded by lambs. Inside she wrote a message:

Dear Louis. Where ever you are, I know you want us to think of you as well and safe. May God be with you + guide you.Love from all. Mother Dad Pete Sylvia and Virginia. Christmas 25-43

Check back tomorrow to hear about a POW Christmas from this same book.

3 comments:

  1. I've heard such fantastic things about this book and keep saying I'm going to pick it up...then don't. I need some dedicated reading time.

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  2. I feel your pain, believe me. This really was an excellent book so if you can carve out some reading time definitely consider reading it!

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  3. I loved this book, though the beginning was a little slow going for me. It sounds like you enjoyed it too, and you picked a great quote!

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