A day off work? A free meal? A parade? Veterans Day is so much more than this. A day to thank those who have served? It’s even more than that. Here’s what I want my children to know about Veterans Day.
Veterans Day is Every Day
It’s great that our country sets aside one day a year to honor our Veterans, but they deserve our gratitude and recognition every day for their service. Every day an average of 22 Veterans take their own lives because of the darkness that haunts them. Don’t wait until November 11th to reach out and show your appreciation. It might be too late.
You may not think about their service every day, but chances are they do. Their time in the military is as much a part of them as where you live and who you love is a part of you. A day of honor is absolutely appropriate; just don’t let that be the only time you show your gratitude.
Veterans Day is About the Living
Not to be confused with Memorial Day, Veterans Day is a day to thank the living. There’s nothing wrong with remembering those who have gone on before us, but our priority should be on thanking those who walk among us today.
Veterans Day gives us an opportunity to reflect on how blessed we are to have so many brave men and women in our military- past, present, and future. It’s a day to give thanks for their courage, selfless service, and patriotism. It’s a day to show our appreciation for those who have fought and continue to fight so that we don’t have to.
Veterans Day is a Day to Give Thanks
“Thank You” hardly seems to express the gratitude of our hearts, but our words often fall short of conveying our deep rooted appreciation and respect. It’s ok. Some sentiments will never be expressed adequately, but as the old adage goes, it really is the thought that counts.
Hearing, “Thank you for your service” is often uncomfortable for many Veterans because, admittedly, they don’t know what to say in return. Say it anyway. Never stop saying “thank you”. Always nod your head and smile when you see someone in uniform. Keep going to the parades and always wave the flag.
Veterans Day is About More than Words
“Thank you” means a lot more when something else follows it. Not sure what to say? Ask a question:
*How long did you serve?
*Where were you stationed?
*What was your job in the military?
These are great questions for starting a conversation with a Veteran. You can still thank them for their service, but asking questions shows you are interested in THEM, not just their title as a Veteran.
What I hope my kids will take away from this day is a sense of how incredibly blessed we are to live in America- land of the free because of the brave.