As I sat today for the first time ever at the new VA clinic a few revelations were made. I can honestly say as a veteran of two separate theaters of operation that I know the sacrifices that are made by the service men and women of this country. I however have not witnessed the aftermath of the humans so directly affected by the hardships of warfare. As I scanned the room of the various waiting rooms I noticed men who were wrinkled in the face, men who wore tattered clothing and men who wanted. The want that these men sought was not to be given back the time that our nation will never be able to repay, the want was for help and help rightly deserved and earned. As I looked among the fellow veterans I felt pity, not for myself but, for my fellow comrades. My heart was hurting and when one of the men looked at me and smiled the words couldnt leave my lips. The truth is that there are no words to provide these warriors for the condolences they should receive. Most of the veterans were older but, there were men and women of all ages showing that the price of war is paid by men and women of all ages and races, there is no discrimination in the price of admission into war. I want to put this in the minds of those who read this. Some of these vets walk one step at a time just like you or I, the difference is that while the general population walk on the two legs and feet that God provided some of the men are hindered, even considered privileged to walk even with artificial limbs. These people gave their bodies for a nation that they believed in and while the 90 percent of Americans kept living, some without a mere acknowledgment of combat even taking place on the other side of the world. What gave me hope today was that these men and women were not there to gripe about there problems and most I saw were in rather high spirits with the can do attitude. We take these men and women for granted every day and often over look the true sacrifices. Many soldiers, marines, airmen, and sailors have given more than just a part of them selves, they gave ALL of them selves so that you and I could sleep comfortably at night with no concerns. So think about that when you have your thanksgiving suppers with your friends and family. Think of the warriors we still have that will miss yet another holiday with their loved ones. Most importantly stop thanking veterans because it is the generic thing to do. Make genuine conversation and try to understand that thanks is not what is wanted, it is the 110 percent support and loyalty and understanding of what has been given to protect all of us during the tenure of the United States military. Please dont forget not all warriors show their scars superficially and it doesnt make them mentally unstable it just means they need understanding and compassion. Start realizing what has truly been given to you this holiday season because it did not come cheaply.
Posted on: Fri, 21 Nov 2014 02:19:57 +0000
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