REFLECTIONS

It has taken a long time for many of us to shape up.

We finally have realized that it’s those veterans of military service who have protected the many freedoms that we have and that they have earned for us.

Again, Blooming Prairie flexed its muscles around our veterans. This area loves veterans and treats them with around-the-clock respect.

“Thank you for your service” has become a popular phrase to use and often used by someone as young as a kindergartener.

We had one day to use that phrase. Let’s use it every day after you learn someone is a veteran. What is a veteran anyway? It’s male or female and it’s someone who will go to long lengths to make this place a better place.

My sister was married to a U.S. Navy man. I remember him serving in Southeast Asia, really before Vietnam hit the headlines. He would bring my brother and me some pretty fancy jackets and even a white sailor hat.

He was proud of being a Navy man, and we shared that pride.

We’re constantly at war. Let’s trade it in for some love and respect.

Let’s take a leaf out of a new life book of a Minnesota Vikings quarterback who showed the signs of “Show Me the Love” after scoring a phenomenal touchdown.

It’s very refreshing to finally see the American soldier treated with respect. Every soldier deserves it.

I remember a friend of mine coming home from Vietnam and feeling like throwing his uniform in the garbage because he was not respected. He finally earned that respect by showing us what sacrifices he had to make.

Think about it! We are here because someone loved us. Let’s share that love of those who have come before us.