What’s funny about the internet is how folks form opinions so easily about people they’ve never met. Over this past year, especially during the election, a number of people have let me know who they think I am and what they think I stand for. And that’s okay because part of this whole blogging thing is the ongoing conversation that you and I have about tax – it’s why I keep doing it.
What you may not know about me is that I am one of three children. My two brothers, one older, one younger, are both Navy men. My older brother is now retired, while my younger brother is still in the service. How I feel about my brothers may sometimes be overshadowed by perceptions about what readers think my politics are. Don’t be fooled.
I have learned a lot about duty, leadership and honor from my brothers and their service for this country. They’ve sacrificed a lot to keep me – and you – safe.
It’s against this backdrop that I know how difficult it can be to serve, both for our service men and women, and for their families. I think it takes courage, resolve and love of country. No matter our respective political convictions, I think we can agree on that. And I think we agree that it’s appropriate to honor these men and women – without the political agendas. Just a simple thanks.
So thanks to the men and women who serve and who have served our country. Happy Veteran’s Day.
I agree. And I can imagine some of the crazy stuff that must fill your mailbox… 🙂
I was a teenager when Vietnam finally ended, it colored my entire childhood. It really saddens me to see us involved in Iraq; as a nation, we seem to have not learned anything at all from that mess. While I consider myself pretty far left, I have enormous respect for people who serve honorably in the military. Even as a kid, I was always disgusted by the way the Vietnam vets were treated on their return. Those who went willingly did so with the belief that they were protecting the rest of us from harm, and I have a lot of respect for that sacrifice, it takes a lot of courage to lay your life on the line, regardless of whether I personally believe we ought to be involved in a particular war. A toast on this day to all who serve.
We did learn one thing Bill, to support our troops regardless of whether we agree or disagree of the reasons for combat. Troops coming home from Vietnam were called “baby killers” and didn’t get the fanfare that their fathers got when they came home form WWII and Korea. Not everyone agrees with Iraq or Afghanistan, but we all agree to support those who are willing to pay the ultimate sacrifice. God bless all veterans, and those who are no longer with us.
It’s funny, Bill. About half of my reader email accuses me of being a crazy leftist radical, the other half claims that I am a dangerous conservative. Go figure!
No matter where you think I stand, just know that I always support the men and women who serve our nation so well.
This is a beautiful post.
Thanks!