To The Veterans

My daughters' school does a Veterans Day program each year with singing and veteran recognition.  It's the type of program that brings a tear to your eye and a warmth to your heart.  I mean, my eyes didn't stand a chance against those children's voices singing "God Bless America" and "You're a Grand Old Flag."

My kindergartner even whispered to me afterwards that she 'felt happy inside' when singing the songs to the veterans and 'felt love for America'.  How touching that even a five year old can feel what it means to be American.

This same daughter had a line, which was kind of a big deal since there were few "speaking" parts.  Her line was "Please stand if you're a Coast Guard Veteran".

My grandmother and her husband came, as he was honored as a Navy veteran.

Something about seeing the pride of a veteran standing at attention, no matter their age, moves something inside me (most likely the big lump in my throat).  I wish every American felt that same pride for our country.

So today, make sure you take the time to personally thank those with whom you come in contact.  Even if you don't know that man or woman in uniform...or older man with a Navy cap on...there's nothing awkward about saying "thank you" on a day that is meant for them.

And I'm willing to bet, it will mean a lot to them that they're simply remembered.

Happy Veterans Day to all who have served our country!