He didn't have to... but he did

It is 11:00 p.m. on July 3rd, 2012; I just got home from a working all day and a leadership meeting in Neenah, WI. I received a piece of mail from one of the leaders at my church.
Man; did it get my attention!
I am including below the words from this letter, but first let me tell why this letter had such an impact on me.
Gene Miels wrote me -Nicholas Nighbor- a letter thanking me for my service to my country. I would like to make a point; this blog post is not about me; it is about Gene.
I met Gene only a couple months ago; I have been a partner at St. Mark Lutheran Church in Green Bay, WI for a little over two years. I have gotten to know Gene over this short time and he has really impressed me.
He has held several leadership positions at the church and has spent so much of his time serving others with his gifts.
I some day would like to be of this same service to the congregation in the future.
Gene hand wrote a letter, yes, that's right, hand wrote a letter expressing his thanks asking me to accept his deepest 'thank you' for the service to the USA.
I feel so very blessed to have a wonderful family, great friends, and leaders I get to learn from.
Gene did not have to do this... but he did.
I hope this touches your heart as it touches mine. The last time I have received a written note was when I was overseas over five years ago. Handwritten letters mean a lot and Gene just reminded me how impactful they can be.
Gene took time out of his schedule to sit down and write a letter, address it and send it in the mail.
This may sound trivial in today's society of Facebook, Twitter and Linkedin and email and texting; but that is why it is so powerful.
I challenge you to write a hand written letter to someone special to you in the next two weeks. They won't forget it.

Below is the letter from Gene:

Dear Nick,
As our country celebrates the 4th of July Holiday, I am compelled to reflect on those who served to protect our liberties and freedoms. We all know freedom is not free. I appreciate the sacrifice that you and all our veterans have made; a debt of service which can never be fully repaid. Please accept my deepest 'thank you' for your military service to our country. Enjoy your 4th Holiday! May God continue to give grace and bless you and the United States of America!  Your friend, Gene


God Bless,
Nicholas Nighbor