If Your Idea of America Doesn't Include Everyone, Don't Bother Thanking Me For My Service

[Arkansas Granny]

If you're an American, and whether you've had the distinct honor to serve in uniform or not, it's likely you've heard that phrase, "thank you for your service." Of course, if you're on the receiving end like myself, and the less then 8 percent of living Americans who've served in uniform, it's usually a pretty good feeling! Who doesn't like be thanked?

And lucky for me, the "thank you for your service" doesn't just stop at individual people. I feel like sort of what you call a semi-superstar—it's all over the place. Businesses, various other institutions, politicians, media, you take your pick—"thank you for your service" is "the thing." Just google "free meals on veterans day" this week and you'll find dozens of restaurants offering veterans free meals as long as you have your military ID to prove it. Who doesn't love that!

But as I reflect on the rapidly deteriorating and divisive state of our nation, and the continued hate-infused rhetoric towards those who follow a faith like mine, perhaps don't look a certain way—or, say, the latest swipe towards a decorated war veteran, LtCol Alexander Vindman with over 20 years of honorable service to this Nation and a Purple Heart, smeared because he happened to be born in the Ukraine—I really can't help but question the genuineness of the whole "thank you for your service." Is it all just a bunch of talk? Something to say because it just sounds nice?

It really got me thinking. What does it actually mean to my fellow Americans when they thank me for my service? Some Americans don't even see me as American enough, let alone validate my military service, because of the way I look and the Islamic faith I keep near and dear to my heart.

https://www.newsweek.com/veterans-day-thank-you-service-inclusion-america-all-1471010

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1. Thank you!

I for one believe that we, every living thing (including the Earth), are connected and are one. I would argue that those who do not feel or see that we are all connected are refusing to look beyond themselves. Race, faith, etc. allows for our individuality, but it's the energy and matter that makes us whole and is what makes us one. Those of us who chose to serve have no choice but to serve the collective and not just one group over another, thus, those who leave service and choose a path of hate. In retirement I am formulating a plan to serve again and that service will have no boundaries based on race, religion, gender, etc. To thank me for my service is to thank me for working to be a better person by working for the one. So, thank you for saying what needs to be said; it serves as a reminder that we (humanity) have lost our way and that the only way forward is as one. Thank you for your service!