I recently interviewed an Air Force veteran for my podcast.
I asked him, “Other than saying thank you for your service,
how can I express my appreciation?”
His response, “Just listen to their story. Some may want to share,
some may not, just listen.”
From some of the few incredible stories I have heard,
there’s always been a common thread,
selfless service.
SEVA is the sanskrit word for service.
Seva is the art of giving with no need to receive.
It’s the art of blessed action.
Perhaps that’s why many veterans feel awkward
when we civilians thank them.
They didn’t serve for thanks.
They served for love of country and the freedoms it stands for.
Now when I am fortunate to meet a veteran, I’ll still thank them
and ask when or where they served.
Perhaps they will share their story and then I’ll truly know
what I’m thanking them for.
Veterans Day is a day of remembrance.
A day to reflect on the service, sacrifice and blessed action
of so many willing brave men and women.
A day to listen to their stories.

Listen now to AN AIRMAN'S SELFLESS SERVICE.