I am grateful in a way words do not describe. In a deep, quiet way that is frustratingly impossible to describe.
Today is a day that was never given much more than a second thought in my youth. A day no one bothered explaining in much detail. Or perhaps they tried, falling short of words as I am falling short now.
I am grateful because in my adult life I came across veterans who put their lives in danger to protect mine. I am grateful because the collapse of the World Trade Center shook me to my very core, as if I myself had felt the buildings tumble at my feet. Because in a way they had, and my life would never again be the same. I am grateful for those that enlisted in the following weeks and months, those who showed the world that the United States was not a country to lie down and take a beating without a fight. That we are a force to be reckoned with.
They call the government “big brother,” and although that’s generally not a positive connotation, in those days following 9/11 I did feel as if my government - specifically our military - were the big brother I never had. The big brother that stood strong and protected us against the dangers and bullies I had previously taken little notice of, and still could not fully comprehend.
I am grateful because I know the toll that protection has taken on those who stepped up to duty. I recognize the toll taken on those who served without going to war. I can see the toll taken on the families of those who serve. How it ages them, strengthens them, the pride the feel, but at great cost. I know that this is a great sacrifice - clearly greater than any sacrifice I have made… and as if they were my own, I feel great pride too.
I am grateful for all of you whom I have met - both young and old - who have served. Who continue to serve our country with your sacrifice. The feeling I feel is deep, so deep it’s hard to see, and yes even for me, it is difficult to express.
At my daughter’s school they had a Veteran’s Parade, and I was thrilled to see that. Excited that she enjoyed herself and enjoyed it. Wished beyond wishing that I had the words to explain to her what it means to be a veteran. Yet each time I try, words fail to express what it means to be protected and safe…
Instead I try to teach her the Star Spangled Banner. It is the reason why we have pride as Americans. Because we live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.
And I am grateful to those of you who are brave enough to keep it that way.
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