A Simple Thank You

I have always been grateful to the veterans of our country for their service. However, only recently was I made aware that maybe veterans are not always aware of the gratitude and what I am thinking. My husband recently challenged each of us to thank a veteran the next time we have the opportunity. My opportunity came this week as I was caring for a patient. I noticed that her husband was wearing a jacket with his VFW patch. Upon talking with him in the hallway, I told him that I noticed that he is a veteran of foreign war. I extended my hand for a shake and said, "I want to thank you for your service". I was caught off guard by the tears that welled in his eyes and the look upon his face. It was at this moment that I gained a deeper appreciation for what serving our country means to veterans. I was blessed far more than he in that encounter! I challenge each of you to "Thank" a veteran the next time you have an opportunity.