Sunday, January 25, 2015

A Day at the Movies


One of the perks of my (ad)venture in real estate is that I can arrange my own calendar.

Instead of waiting, I can actually go to a matinee and watch a movie when it first comes out and eat a buttery bucket of popcorn for lunch (don't judge me).

Such was the case a few days ago when my husband and I went to see American Sniper, the movie about former Navy Seal Chris Kyle, America's deadliest sniper. 
Chris Kyle visiting MHS in February of 2012

Almost a year prior to this death, Kyle came to Midlothian High School (where I was teaching at the time) to share his experiences and discuss his book at a teacher in-service. Kyle was invited as a guest speaker because he had a special connection to Midlothian. He had once attended MHS and lived in Midlothian with his wife and children. I'm thankful I had the opportunity to meet and thank Chris Kyle and his wife, Taya, that day.

I enjoyed the book and the movie–although the word "enjoyed" seems so ill-fitting and out of place. Both the book and the movie helped put into perspective the sacrifices our soldiers and their families make for us and the toll their tours make. 

Days after seeing American Sniper, the movie still haunts me and leaves me with a sadness that a true American hero is gone. (Kyle was killed Feb. 2, 2013 by a former Marine he was trying to help.) 

As we approach the anniversary of Chris Kyle's death, remember those who sacrifice so much for our freedom.