Time to Reflect

Poker is a game we all enjoy. We know that bad beats are part of the game, and when we get them, we sometimes wonder why we are so unlucky. During this holiday season, the next time you suffer a bad beat, take a moment to reflect on how lucky you are to enjoy the freedoms you have and how trivial a hand of poker is compared to the bad beats in the game of life.

The holiday season should be a time of joy, and of giving and sharing with loved ones. It also should be a time to take a step back and realize how fortunate we really are. Think of the people who lost their homes in the recent California fires. Think of people with illnesses and those dying of cancer. Think of those who live in poverty around the world. Think of those in the wrong place at the wrong time when terrorism strikes. Think how lucky we really are.

We all love our freedom, but sometimes we take it for granted. Never forget that freedom comes with a price. It takes blood, sweat, and sacrifice by our military for us to have our freedom. They put their lives on the line every day to protect our freedom. Take a moment to reflect on how wonderful those who serve in the armed forces really are.

I recently received an e-mail that struck a chord with me. It says it all. Allow me to share it with you.

I don't know if you saw the following item when Hurricane Isabelle was approaching the East Coast, but it really impressed me. On the ABC Evening News, it was reported that because of the potential dangers posed by Hurricane Isabelle approaching Washington, DC, U.S. government offices there were closed for two days. Because of the potential severity of the storm, military members assigned the duty of guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier were given permission to suspend that assignment.

They refused. "No way, Sir!"

Soaked to the skin from marching in the pelting rain of the tropical storm, they said guarding the Tomb was not just an assignment, it was the highest honor that could be afforded a service person. (The Tomb has been patrolled continuously – 24 hours a day, seven days a week – since 1930.)

Take time to reflect this holiday season. Be proud of our young men and women in the service, no matter where they serve.

Happy holidays!

Mike Sexton is the host of PartyPoker.com and a commentator on the World Poker Tour, which can be seen on the Travel Channel every Wednesday.