Veterans Day.  What does that mean to you?  Some will say that it means a day off of work or school.  Others complain that it means they will have to postpone that trip to the Post Office or bank.  Still, others will look forward to special sales or discounts at stores and restaurants.

 

Looking at all these things that are associated with Veterans Day, I can't help but be a little sad.  All these things just mentioned focus on us.  These things focus on convenience or what we can get out of this day.  Sure, there are programs on TV that focus on the men and women that served or are currently serving in the military.  There are parades and special events that honor these ever-vigilant heroes.  But somehow, there is still a distance; an almost surreal separation between those who served and those who are served.  It's sad, but I have seen the uneasiness that some civilians have when they encounter either a person in uniform or clothing adorned with VFW, American Legion, POW/MIA, or other insignia.  I've seen people look the other way when a wounded warrior enters the room.  Oh, this day is a good day... that is until this day becomes too real.

 

I come from a family filled with those who served or are serving in the armed forces.  Dad was a paratrooper in the Army as was his father who became a naturalized citizen of this country.  My mother's side of the family had uncles and cousins who served in the Army, Navy, and Air Force.  I have a niece who served in the Navy and a nephew who is an Army Ranger.  My brother-in-law is a Reservist with the Army.  Had it not been for a bad hip, I probably would have made my career with the Navy as well.  That was my heart: to serve.

 

I've always taught my sons to show honor to those who serve this great country.  To this day, we go out of our way to shake the hands and thank these brave heroes who have taken the oath to serve.  My heart skips a beat every time my youngest renders a salute to show his gratitude.  I know that it is in his heart to serve as well.

 

We enjoy much in this country.  We have more freedoms than others beyond our borders.  And when we complain about the inconvenience of a government office being closed or a shortened workweek, we can express our dissatisfaction.  We can eat, shop, travel, study, and worship anywhere we want in this land because of the sacrifice that these unsung heroes have made.  All gave some - some gave all.  Let us learn gratefulness and have the courage to show that gratitude toward these proud and brave who continue to keep us free.