It has been an honor for me to have served as your Chaplain again this Legion year. We have visited  and worked with many families. Our aim has been “service to God and country”; it is basic Americanism. Ben Franklin was making one of the greatest  speeches of his time.  “ I have lived, sir, a long time and the longer I live the more convincing  proofs I see of this truth. That God governs in the affairs of men we have been assured, sir, in the sacred writings, that Expect the Lord build the house, they labor in vain, that built it”
I wonder what Ben Franklin would say to  us today. Our world sends so many conflicting signals on the important issues of life. How should we approach  anger? Is discipline a good thing or not? Why  speak with honesty? Is prayer real? What is true wisdom? He that won’t be counseled can’t be helped. If doing a good act in public will excite others, do more good. “”Let light your light shine to all to do good when a man’s ways please the Lord he maketh even his enemies  to be at peace with him.” The world is in dire need of encouragers.
The business of our lives is not to please ourselves but to please God. The fear of the Lord  is the beginning of knowledge. Give what you have to someone. It may be better then  you dare think.  We  Americans have been a most favored people; we ought to be a most grateful people in everything and give thanks to God. Let us always be honest. And he that does one fault at first and lies to hide it  makes it two. Everything done in this world is done by hope of eternal life which God promised before the world began.
No man is great if he thinks he is. The love of God should be first and foremost in our daily lives. Love more people  more without thought of return. Be patience with others. If you are going to make a difference you might as well make it a positive on, “Let your light shine.”
May God walk with each of you as you continue on your journey in life.
If I can help you with in any way  call and let me know. And again it has been my honor to have been your Chaplain.

Jack Maloy