Day 11 – Gratitude Challenge

For many, today is a holiday. It is a day off from work. But it is, and should be, so much more. It is Veterans Day.

In 1926, Congress passed the following:

Whereas the 11th of November 1918, marked the cessation of the most destructive, sanguinary, and far reaching war in human annals and the resumption by the people of the United States of peaceful relations with other nations, which we hope may never again be severed, and

Whereas it is fitting that the recurring anniversary of this date should be commemorated with thanksgiving and prayer and exercises designed to perpetuate peace through good will and mutual understanding between nations; and

Whereas the legislatures of twenty-seven of our States have already declared November 11 to be a legal holiday: Therefore be it Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), that the President of the United States is requested to issue a proclamation calling upon the officials to display the flag of the United States on all Government buildings on November 11 and inviting the people of the United States to observe the day in schools and churches, or other suitable places, with appropriate ceremonies of friendly relations with all other peoples.

Millions of people have served our country, including many I care deeply about. My grandfather, father, uncles, cousins, and many others have served. So today, I am grateful for the veterans, living and dead, who served our country honorably.

Day 11 of Gratitude Challenge

In 1938, the United States made November 11 a legal holiday. It was originally called Armistice Day to honor the end of World War I. It is interesting to note that as World War I was wrapping up, the Spanish Flu pandemic was ramping up. In 1954, Congress changed the name of the holiday to “Veterans Day” to honor ALL who have served in our military.

Today, I proudly and publicly state my gratitude and support for all those who have served. Thank you for your service. Thank you for putting your life on the line so that others can have freedom. Thank you for keeping the world safer. Thank you.

Though I have not served, many close to me have. My father, my father-in-law, my grandfather and several of my uncles have served. Some of my friends have served. Thank you.

Today, thank a veteran. Buy him/ her a coffee or a meal. Reflect on you have because of our veterans.

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