Society and Veterans

As a society, we "interact" with veterans, but a significant portion of our society experiences these interactions with those we see on street corners asking for our help. I feel confident that those reading this have seen a person who fits in the picture below. I also feel confident that most people reading this have had similar reactions. Upon seeing this image or a homeless veteran on the street, many feel similar emotions and exhibit similar responses. I too have fallen into this generalization. Human nature is to be uncomfortable around strangers and too make snap judgments. However, this is one of the veterans that we are often reminded to express our debt of gratitude toward. I know that Americans do their part paying taxes to fund agencies that offer support to those who have served our country. This is our duty. The next duty is to ensure that these services are adequate and distributed justly. This combined with our compassion and solidarity are essential. Analyzing our reaction to veterans in need is also needed. Taking a moment to ask ourselves why we are sometimes uncomfortable is a great start to understanding our biasses, prejudices and their root. Finding our areas in need of growth is a step from which we can all benefit.

What do you see?