Monday, November 10, 2008 4:33 pm

Veterans' Day sprang from the horror of World War I, the "war to end all wars".  Men and women who serve the United States by putting on the uniform and going where they are sent, doing the job that needs doing, and coming home to a world unchanged - except for their lives turned upside down - deserve more than a Penney's white sale or a day to sleep in.

A week ago, we were able to go to the polls and vote because American soldiers fought to gain our freedom and have fought to preserve it. We seem to think that winning WW II was a sure thing. It was not. A few twists of history here and there and the outcome would have been different. American soldiers who serve their country know that while the country may win, he or she may not live to celebrate the victory.  Yet, they continue to do their jobs.

Veterans aren't red. They aren't blue. They are our brothers, our sisters, our aunts, our uncles, our moms and dads, our grandmas and grandpas, our friends, acquaintances, co-workers, business associates, waiter, waitress, and tragically, our homeless and destitute.  They are us.

Salute a veteran today.  Shake their hand. Smile and thank them for their service. 

And most importantly, say a prayer of thanksgiving for them. Say a prayer for their families, for they also serve. Say a prayer that our leaders won't waste their devotion or squander their talents in reckless adventures.