Appreciation comes with age

Thank you to all those who have served this country!  Thank you to my Dad for his service.

I think as I get older, and others like me (of my generation that did not enroll into the Armed Services), I realize that things that didn't register on your radar in the past, now have significant meaning as I 'age'.  What I knew of Veterans Day was pretty basic stuff... a day to reflect and honor. Simple as that... I would say my general and shallow 'thank you' and be on about my day.

Regrettably I'm embarrassed, but how was I supposed to react or know any differently... ignorantly but truthfully, I didn't know any better. And although my Dad serviced in the Air Force... my path in life was not infused in such a way.

I read a bunch of articles and watched the news report about how Veterans Day is continually under appreciated and not 'celebrated' enough.  I completely agree, but although a large amount of the population has served in one way or another... it's remains 'unrelatable' to us 'others'.

And sadly, there's no real middle ground - 'we' know we are protected and that all these honorable men and women give more than 'we' could ever imagine for this country, but we only pay homage when the worst happens and 'they' toe the line for us... and that is what keeps this Day from receiving it's proper due.

Veterans Day... Appreciation and Respect towards. Awareness of.

Want to honor those that this Day is meant to honor? Do 30 minutes of reading... Google 'Veterans Day' - start there... it's not much I know, but it's better than not understanding, and just saying 'thank you' because it makes you feel like a decent citizen.

 * Timothy