van ♉️ spooky munch

As a veteran, I’ve always felt a little uncomfortable when ppl say, “Thank you for your service.” Over time, I’ve had to grow into accepting that my service is worthy of gratitude while also recognizing that I can be proud of my service and still challenge this country to live up to the very ideals it claims to represent. I’m grateful for the opportunities the military has afforded me, and the life I’ve been able to build because of those experiences. But I would be lying if I said I didn’t believe this country should be doing significantly more for its veterans. Sometimes, “Thank you for your service” feels performative. It has become something we’re conditioned to say rather than a sentiment reflected in how we actually treat those who have served. Because what does that gratitude really mean when we have veterans experiencing homelessness in the country they served? When veterans are struggling with physical and mental health challenges, navigating bureaucratic barriers, or waiting for access to the very healthcare services they were promised? We cannot continue to romanticize military service while overlooking the realities so many veterans face once that service ends. So, Happy Veterans Day to those who served, those who are struggling, and especially those who are still out here surviving.