The greatest gift you can give someone is your time. I wholeheartedly believe that and do what I can to be there for anyone that needs me, in any way I possibly can. When you give someone your time, it’s not only priceless, but you are giving them a piece of yourself you will never have again.
Growing up as a daughter of a Vietnam Veteran, granddaughter of a Navy Veteran from WWII and niece to three uncles who were also in the military was interesting to say the least, and you would think that as a result I would be tougher and more resilient, but I think sensitive, determined and compassionate would describe me better.
Seeing so many homeless veterans throughout my life, but especially over the past number of years, has found a deeper sensitive soft spot in me for our veterans. Knowing my aging dad and what he and his fellow comrades sacrificed for our country made me want to do more. Everyday I wake up in the morning, have a safe place to live, running water and food on the table, this reminds me not only to thank our veterans but do what I can to make a difference.
In 2009, my husband and I created “Cards for Our Vets”. With minimal finances or resources to create any elaborate projects, we collaborated and decided to remind the veterans they have not been forgotten by collecting cards and messages from our local schools and businesses for our veterans in Coatesville VA Medical Center.
Our local schools have really risen to the occasion when it comes to truly giving it their all and making our veterans feel special each time. They have created thousands upon thousands of cards, banners and notes for our veterans. At one collection, one of our area elementary schools and their art teachers created over 1465 cards and banners. We can not express the gratitude for all our wonderful teachers, facility and students who regularly want to brighten the spirits of our veterans. We thank you and they thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
Just the other day, I was out spending time with my husband and we stopped to get coffee at the local Dunkin Donuts. I was thankful we were able to and to make it even better, they had my favorite flavor, Pumpkin. There was an older gentleman walking up and down the street looking like he needed help right outside the parking lot. Cars and trucks just kept driving by, ignoring the man as if he wasn’t even there. He looked tired, frustrated, and hungry. I talked to my husband and we bought him a breakfast sandwich. I walked between the stopped traffic to get to him. After exchanging smiles, some simple hellos, handed him the bag with the food in it and he seemed so happy.
BE THE REASON SOMEONE SMILES TODAY
Over the last 12 years, since the day we started Cards for Our Vets, each visit to our veterans offers unique memories and touches our hearts in a different way. We are proud to have done this, and look forward to the next 30 years. Again, we are very thankful for all the various school districts who have helped make this possible through the years. This and so many other encounters with not only our veterans, but others less fortunate people who need food, housing, insurance, safety, or just someone to listen. The experiences I have had encouraged me to provide ongoing support, be an active listener and further develop the skills and determination I had when I began my psychology and counseling programs. Now both my husband and I are working on completing our masters in clinical health and would love to find some feasible way to better serve our veterans and any other under-served populations that need us most.
My memorable experiences working with the veterans and others while working toward my master’s degree has also taught me that when you want to make a difference in others’ lives, you cannot stay quiet, but need to stand up for what you believe in and do what you can to develop steps toward change. Can’t we find a way to form one of these many vacant buildings into housing for our homeless people, including our veterans? Give them 90 days to get a job, find doctors, community housing, assistance with food and utilities, until they are able to get back on their feet and make the American Dream THEY fought for us possible for them and other homeless people as well.
When we find a way to give to others, even in the smallest way, it can go much further than just making ourselves feel good. it can truly have an impact on so many lives.
If you or anyone you might know are interested in helping us, please reach out by clicking here to email us OR go to our main website: Lifeofpretty.com/cardsforourvets
