Romans 13:7 -Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. NKJV
Today we celebrate Veteran’s Day to honor the men and women who have served in the armed forces of the United States. It is a day that we also celebrate those who are active in the military. As a veteran of the United States Navy, I say thank you to those of you who honor this day with heartfelt wishes. And I also take this time to say “Thank you,” to those who have served and who currently serve!
This was not intended to be a blog. I was just going to post a picture and wish everyone a wonderful day, but now I have something to say.
It’s a real blessing, as a veteran, a military spouse, a sibling of a veteran, an aunt of a veteran, and a parent of an active duty member of the military to hear civilians stop and say, “Thank you for your service”! Statistically, about 1% of our population join the armed forces. While we all enjoy our “rights”, a very small percentage of Americans are willing to defend those rights.
When I joined the Navy, it wasn’t a hard decision, as I knew in my heart that God told me to join. As I watched our daughter join, and become a commissioned officer, my heart was full of joy. When she went overseas to the Middle East, I had to maintain that joy. It wasn’t always easy! Every time our daughter comes home, is a time of celebration for us, as God continues to watch over her.
My husband and I met while we were in the military. We got married then returned to civilian life, whole and healthy. That’s not everyone’s story. Some family members don’t return home, while others return home with far more issues than a person should have to deal with. Sacrifices are made, lives are lost, and we are still the greatest country in the world, enjoying the freedoms that our military protect all over the world. Even our allies, enjoy the benefits of our military.
When you say, “Thanks for your service,” it brings warmth to our hearts. It’s like you are saying, “Thanks for missing the holidays. Thanks for missing your birthdays and the birthdays of your family members. Thanks for going through days, weeks, months, and even years experiencing loneliness for us, separated from your family. Thanks for volunteering to do what I could never see myself doing, or want my child or spouse to do. Thanks for the many sacrifices you made, and may still be making because of your service. Thanks so very much!”
You honor us with your well wishes. Businesses honor us with free meals, discounts, and huge banners for all to see. Flags are flown as a display of celebration. And the nation gives us the day off! What’s not to like about it!
As a veteran, who had to take the day off to celebrate Veteran’s Day, I say to you, “Thank you for realizing that we give up so much as service members. It’s nice to feel appreciated!” I honor you with this blog!
Again, to all of my fellow veterans, and active duty members, “You Rock!” Thank you for your service! Wonderful Jesus!
