Veterans day- a reflection

As much as I would like today to be merely a day where I am not forced to go sit through two classes and dream of the day I will someday be done being the student and become the teacher I would also like to take a moment to thank some very important people.
Those people are veterans.
The men and women who sacrifice everything for a something they truly believe in- our country.
I know everyone has seen this picture and honestly a lot of people find it a little cliche. But I don't- the beauty, the pain, the courage... It nearly brings me to tears when I see it because of the incredible story that follows it.
Our politicians may be a little crooked, and the public sphere spinning a little wonky, but the core of America, freedom and liberty ring true because of our veterans.
There are quite a few veterans in my life.
A friend from high school, who has been to Iraq and soon to be in Afghanistan
My uncle and my cousins who have and are serving in the Navy.
My mom's amazing coworkers who have served in various branches.
And my amazing grandfather who was a reserve officer at Fort Ripley.
I don't think there is an American out there who doesn't know a veteran, and doesn't feel some debt of gratitude to them none the less.
We don't say thank you enough. Not nearly enough. Not only do the veterans deserve our thanks, but so do their families.
So, from the deepest parts of my heart
To every veteran who has served our country
To every spouse who has had to say goodbye
To every parent that has watched their child become a soldier
To every child that has spent their childhood with a parent overseas

Thank you