"The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep, and miles to go before I sleep."

Friday, November 10, 2006

Veteran's Day, NOT

During my morning run today, my thoughts ran faster than I did.

For according to my calendar, today is indicated as “Veteran’s Day Observed”. However it is not Veteran’s Day for Veteran’s Day is and, as far as I know, has always been on November 11th.

As a veteran, I’m not sure I like this seemingly arbitrary alteration. To me, it seems to diminish the significance of the day when its observance bounces willy nilly about the calendar like some sort of ping pong ball. You would think, especially given the present role our military is playing, that a greater significance would be afforded this special day.

But no, unfortunately it seems in today’s world, the importance of this and every other holiday for that matter, comes down to one thing: retail sales.

Having spent the last 20 years working in the car business, I speak with some degree of authority on this subject for my industry is by far one of the worst offenders when it comes to intentionally usurping the true meaning of any holiday in the hopes of bleeding one more dollar out of our narcissistic society.

“In honor of the veterans of America, we’ll be open till 10 pm! So come on down and drive home in your new car today!”

Am I naïve to think it should be otherwise?

I don’t think so. Idealistic perhaps but not naïve for if we as a nation lose sight of the importance of history and those who played a role in shaping it, where does that leave us?

“Don't forget your history nor your destiny” – Bob Marley

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