Generations of Veterans have felt that the sacrifice they voluntarily performed for their country has gone virtually unrecognized. You can find examples of this everywhere you look. It's so easy as a civilian to move through your day without even a thought to those that sacrifice daily for our freedom and protection. The most prominent example of this is with Vietnam Veterans. Who were not only not recognized or rewarded for their sacrifice they were actually shunned and ridiculed for protecting our Nation. Over time we have tended to evolve our way of thinking and start to put in place recognition and appreciation that was due decades prior but sometimes that's a little too late for those that earned the recognition, sometimes decades prior.
Rarely in life will you hear me say the words; entitled or entitlement. This is one of those rare circumstances. Our Veterans are ENTITLED to the best our Nation has to offer. You name it, they have earned it. Benefits are entitlements that are used as a carrot for those who serve our Nation. What ends up happening is those ENTITLEMENTS fall short of expectations and basic needs at times. We are in a period once again where that is more evident than ever in our history. We have thousands of Veterans struggling to get the entitlements they are entitled to. Leading to an epic suicide rate and homeless issue across our Nation. Some or even many may disagree with my belief or description of entitled and entitlements, as used in reference to Veterans, but let's stay focused on the root cause of this problem.
We as a Nation need to do better with supporting our Veterans and making it everyone's responsibility to ensure this happens. For those that are Veterans a few key points to keep in mind:
- Your sacrifice is second to none, hold your head high in honor.
- Be an advocate for change so that future generations of Veterans will not endure the same indifference.
- Where your service as a badge of honor and respect, there is not greater privilege.
- Keep an open mind to others opinions and an open heart to accepting that some may not change.
- Support fellow Veterans in any way possible to strengthen the resolve, bond and brotherhood/sisterhood that is created from serving in such trying circumstances.
My hope is that one day our Nation at its core will raise our children to respect and honor the sacrifice of our Nation's greatest asset, Veterans. Veterans do not want pity or nor do they want to be patronized. They want to be shown respect, dignity, and appreciation for be willing to sacrifice for our Nation. This is some of the easiest and grass roots gifts we can give Veterans. As I close out this series on Building Transition Coping Strategies I challenge all fellow Americans to support and respect each and every Veteran. As well as challenge each and every Veteran to hold their head high in Honor and know you are truly appreciated.
Landmark Life Coaching's Mission is to honorably and respectfully serve courageous groundbreakers and transitioning veterans to persevere in defining and executing their future by providing an atmosphere of comradery and trust that honors their dedication and commitment. This will empower our clients to feel whole, honored, respected and fulfilled in defining and living their life purpose.
Veterans Coach/Speaker/Writer Dwayne.paro@landmarklifecoaching.com