It doesn’t have to be Veterans Day to remember them. I was attending a college football game last Saturday afternoon. And as the Star Spangled Banner was sung, this special group of people came to mind. So it doesn’t have to be a parade, or a flag waving in the wind, or a bugle playing “Taps.” Sometimes remembrance finds its way into the quiet moments, when you see an older gentleman stand a little straighter during the anthem, or a young woman carrying herself with a calm strength that only comes from surviving more than most can imagine.

They are among us. Veterans. Those who went when called,  some drafted, some volunteering but each one stepping into uncertainty for reasons larger than themselves. They left behind comfort, family, and safety to protect lives, defend ideals, and carry burdens most of us may never fully understand.

Some came home with visible scars. Some with invisible ones.
Some returned whole in body but forever changed in spirit.
Some, never coming home at all.

Their sacrifice cannot be measured in battles fought or medals awarded. It’s measured in the sleepless nights, the haunting memories, and the quiet resilience it takes to live each day after war. It’s measured in the courage to face life again with less than what they left with and yet, somehow more in strength and perspective.

Many went in with two legs and came out with one.
Many still fight unseen wars in their minds.
Yet all of them share a common bond….the decision to serve, to risk, to endure, and to give.

Their sacrifice is a reminder that freedom is never free. It came with a cost,  paid in time, in tears, in limbs and in lives. And even now, its price continues to echo through the hearts of those who once wore the uniform.

So today, let’s pause.
Not with fanfare.
Not with speeches or hashtags.
But with gratitude.

Gratitude that such honorable people exist, people who have borne the weight of duty and sacrifice so others could live in peace. Gratitude for their strength, their courage, and their continued presence among us.

So, to every Veteran: 

Known and unknown, young and old, healed and still healing,  thank you.
Not just for your service, but for your sacrifice. For your quiet strength.
For reminding us what it truly means to give. May we never need a holiday to remember. May gratitude for you live quietly in our hearts, every day.

anablepsis

Dear Friends,

As I reflect on this past year, I want to pause and say thank you. To each of you who take time out of your busy lives to read, reflect, and walk with me through these writings….I am deeply grateful.

Some of you share your thoughts openly, while others support me quietly and unseen.

Please know this: whether your presence is visible or silent, it matters more than you’ll ever know. Every moment you give to reading my musings, is a gift I don’t take lightly.

I know we don’t always see things the same way, and that’s perfectly fine. Growth often comes through listening, stretching, and even disagreeing with grace. What matters most is that you’re here, part of this journey with me, and for that I’m thankful. 

This Thanksgiving, I’m thankful for you.

Your support fuels my words and encourages me to keep going. So from the bottom of my heart, along with Brenda, (my faithful photographer and number 1 supporter!) Thank you for being part of this community.

May the year ahead be full of light, hope, and meaningful moments for you and your loved ones.

With gratitude,

Kelvin (anablepsis)