Today, all around the world, at 11:11am on 11/11/11, we are asked to pause and remember in silence those who it seems, in these times, serve in silence. The men and women of our military carry out their duties and commitment every day so we may be safe and protected ~ every day. And yet we seldom hear of what they give up on our behalf.
When we take our turns across the time zones to honor those who make incredible sacrifices, carry out the mission they committed to and who often make the ultimate sacrifice on our behalf, make it count. Stop. Really stop. Consider. Consider the courage and strength it takes to put oneself in harm’s way. Give thanks.
From the deepest part of your heart, send thoughts of thanks and gratitude to those out there still fighting on our behalf, families waiting for their safe return and the souls lost over the many years.
Too often these days, we give time and front page headlines to people who can’t spell the word commitment never mind understand what true sacrifice is about. Meanwhile, military families must find ways to raise children with a parent overseas, tighten their budgets to make ends meet or deal with a long list of challenges in the aftermath of combat. If we have time for The Enquirer, Lindsay Lohan and Kim Kardashian, surely we have a minute to spare for our Veterans.
Do what you must to remember to interrupt your daily schedule…a routine you can do freely because others protect our borders and the people we love. Set an alarm. Pull over to the side of the road. Push back from your desk. Get on your feet and make the effort to take part. It is such an easy and simple gesture, yet it is meaningful and inspirational.
Imagine if you were in a bank or a grocery store and you modeled this moment for others. Can you feel the ripple effect? One after another will stop and join in. And in that moment, you will be standing in silence honoring those who serve in silence. Without complaint, without much recognition, because they said they would and because they know what it means to honor your word and serve your country.
I know where I will be today at 11:11amPST on 11/11/11…on my feet, eyes closed, hand on my heart sending my gratitude and my thanks. Please join me.
YourTango
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I, for one, have often been the one proclaiming it’s time to stop these wars we (don’t) elect to fight. However, that has issues with the policy makers and the leaders of the armed forceds- not the members of the various troops.
No matter your politics, keep that in mind.
Honor the veteran. Honor those who fell- and will fall tomorrow- to afford you and me the ability to have our voices.
Consider what would happen if you were transported to Homs, Syria in an instant.
Exactly, Roy. Whatever the politics of war are, it is the people who deserve to be honored. We are blessed to live in this country, and I say that as someone who put an incredible effort into becoming a citizen. I do not take for granted that so many are out there watching over us and I am truly grateful.
Thank you for this beautiful tribute to Veterans and their families. Well done.
Thank you for a truly heart felt testament for those who put themselves in harm’s way so that most of us can be distracted by the mundane trivialities and joys of life.
I agree with Roy’s comment (and your reply) and I appreciate your beautifully written post. It actually brought tears to my eyes.
This was beautifully written Tambre. I did take the time to honor those who are sacrificing their lives for us. Thank you for sharing this important day to honor our military.
Cindy