h2odivers...Ray 952 Posted November 11, 2015 Report Share Posted November 11, 2015 The Missing Men Table Ceremony is generally done at banquets, dinners, or any other occasions where setting up a dinner table would appear appropriate. The reason for this ceremony is to acknowledge the inability of our missing to be with us in the celebrations we hold, because they have been left behind, and to honor their sacrifice for this country. This is a very moving ceremony and has been known to spark interest in people who never realized the scope of this issue. The table that stands before you is a place of honor. In setting this table, we acknowledge those missing from our celebration tonight. And we remember them. The table is small, and set for one -- Symbolizing the vulnerability of a lone prisoner against his captors. Remember!The tablecloth is white -- Symbolizing purity of intention in responding to the nation's call to arms. Remember! The chair is empty, for they are not here. Remember! The wine glass is inverted -- They cannot toast with us this night. Remember! The slices of lemon -- Reminding us of their bitter suffering. Remember! The grains of salt -- Representing the countless tears of the families. Remember! The single red rose -- Reminding us of loved ones who keep the faith awaiting their return. Remember! The burning candle and yellow ribbon -- Symbolizing everlasting hope of a reunion with the missing. Remember! Remember! -- All who have served alongside them; we who have donned the same proud uniform, being sworn to the same faith and allegiance -- We will never forget their sacrifice. Remember!Remember! -- Until the day they return home, or find eternal peace, we will remember. djsamuel 1 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
twiceblessed....nacole 433 Posted November 11, 2015 Report Share Posted November 11, 2015 That is beautiful Ray, thank you for sharing. I am humbled and praise God for all the men, women and their families who have served, and our serving, our country. Their sacrifice is a great one and has not gone unnoticed by our family. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Littleolwoman.aka.Kristie 119 Posted November 11, 2015 Report Share Posted November 11, 2015 Shared this with my children today. Thank you Quote Link to post Share on other sites
fladogfan aka Gretchen 259 Posted November 12, 2015 Report Share Posted November 12, 2015 This is beautiful, so meaningful. Never heard of this before, thank you very much. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
djsamuel 322 Posted November 12, 2015 Report Share Posted November 12, 2015 We have the table for one set up here at work (I work for the Navy). It's always there and is a great reminder. I never knew the significance of each item on the table. Thanks! Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Retired and Happy (Ken) 101 Posted November 13, 2015 Report Share Posted November 13, 2015 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ic8zMkYwnq8 Quote Link to post Share on other sites
fladogfan aka Gretchen 259 Posted November 13, 2015 Report Share Posted November 13, 2015 This hymn always makes me tear up when we sing it in church. And it did again. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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