Some quick thoughts about this particular day on the American calendar.
Hopefully, this post finds you enjoying a well-earned day off from work (or, if you are forced to work this day, you can get some well-earned compensation). This past week has seen a ton of emotions, especially the gambit of emotions associated with the Sunday Night Football game last night. Ok, sorry for that reminder, but then again, this is a Houston Texans’ site.
However, this Monday is a day when we can and should step beyond the Xs and Os, scores and standings, and consider something bigger than football. It is a day designated to remember and honor those who’ve put everything on the line in defense of this nation and its ideals. Originally, this day served as a reminder of the last day of what was (at the time) the most destructive war in human history. “The War to End All Wars” they called it. Unfortunately, the fact that we also call that war World War I indicates that the horror of the conflict from 1914-1918 wasn’t the last such war.
As of now, approximately 16.2 million Americans call themselves veterans, combined with approximately 2.8 million individuals who currently serve (and the 1-2 million family members of those who serve). It is the ultimate call, to say that you willingly put everything on the line to protect this nation. Some served in relative comfort and with few hardships. Others saw the worst of the world. Yet, they all took the oath of service. Were and are they all perfect? No, but they did the best they could for this nation.
The idea of service to this nation can illicit various emotions. Some good, some not. The military is but one tool of the nation, and it can be used and abused like anything else. Still, the men and women who serve this nation, whether idealistic in their service, or joining up just as a job, did their part. Veterans’ Day does not require anyone to worship those that served. You are not required to say the cliche line “Thank you for your service.” (Honestly, many vets like me are uncomfortable with that line). However, on this day, which hopefully you can take advantage of, you spare a few moments to think about what sacrifices men and women have undertaken on behalf of this country.
Think of those who made the ultimate sacrifice. Yet, also consider those that served, but also came back. Also consider the families and loved ones, who had to bear the burden of service, with little control over their lives. Service is an all-encompassing thing, not just for the servicemember.
Enjoy this day. Enjoy the freedoms (especially the freedom to critique the Texans ad nauseum for their second half performance on Sunday Night). Yet, also consider the reason why for this holiday, and price paid. As always, we encourage you to celebrate responsibly. We want you back the same as, or even better than, you were before the holiday.