Taking a moment to say thank you!  Thank you to our veterans and current service women and men for their commitment to protect the freedom I am able to enjoy each and every day.

Earlier this year, I was at a celebration of the arts for our county school system.  My son’s chorus was performing alongside various high schools, middle schools and elementary schools.  Some schools danced, some did acting for their art and some sang.  My son’s performance was that show stopping kind of wonderful, of course, but there was another performance that had a lasting impact on me.  The impact on me was actually because of the impact this performance had on those around me.

This particular performance was dedicated to those who served or are currently serving in a branch of the military.  These high school youth presented a song and tap dance to the tunes of every anthem from every branch of service.  As the songs were offered up, each member of that military branch, current or retired, was asked to stand and be recognized.  It was truly wonderful to see everyone standing proud as they were acknowledged for their service.

As I watched and listened, I noticed a man, in his late 70’s, at the end of my row.  He was getting more emotional with each anthem played.  I glanced over at him and noticed his unshakable focus, determined to honor each woman or man that stood to be recognized.  Eventually, the anthem for his branch of service, Air Force, began to play.  As he stood, I watched as he held back tears.

This moment, a few minutes of recognition, seemed to not be enough for all the emotion welling up inside this man.  It was not sad, nor proud, just beautiful.  I realized, for this man, serving his country was more than just a job to him.  It was a passion, a love, a fierce desire to serve and protect his family as well as perfect strangers.  Many years after retirement this man still wore his military heart on his sleeve.

Until that moment, at the county wide celebration of the arts, I never really, truly understood the impact serving in the military had on those who serve.  So, with new understanding, I extend a heartfelt, “THANK YOU” to all the veterans and current service men and women.  Thank you for your compassion and commitment to serve and protect our great country.