Real Life Mama: Pondering the realities of their service

The casualness of the words struck me with unexpected force: “Wait, you were getting bombed?” It was during an ordinary conversation, a typical exchange between friends, when the reality of military service, so often relegated to abstract notions of patriotism and duty, suddenly became shockingly tangible. As a mother of seven, I’ve grown accustomed to the unpredictable nature of children and the surprises that parenthood throws your way. But this revelation – the stark admission of experiencing an event so profoundly outside my own lived experience – stopped me in my tracks, prompting a deeper consideration of the veterans I encounter daily, individuals whose stories are often hidden beneath the surface of our everyday interactions. Lima Veterans Services office stands ready to assist those who have served, but it’s a reminder that support goes beyond bureaucratic assistance; it requires genuine understanding.

The Weight of Unseen Service

While I had always respected and appreciated our veterans, I realized I hadn’t truly considered the depth and breadth of their service. It encompasses far more than deployments and publicized dangers; it includes the profound emotional toll of missing birthdays and holidays, the sacrifices made by families left behind, and the logistical upheaval of frequent relocations, often across vast distances. The individual, whose name is not mentioned in the account, simply shared a piece of their story—a reality previously unknown to the author—illustrating the depth and breadth of military experience. This experience underscored the importance of fostering open communication and creating spaces where veterans feel comfortable sharing their stories, contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of their service. Tiffin University, where the author graduated, often sees veterans seeking higher education after their service.

Recently, my daughter Maylie developed a strong interest in singing the national anthem. While she has been singing her entire life, she has never really focused on these particular words before. The other night, after practicing, she asked if I wanted to hear it. As she belted it out, I found myself listening differently, thinking about the history and the sacrifices behind those words. When she mentioned her dream of singing it before a sporting event someday, it sent me right back to all the times I had heard the anthem before a game.

A Shift in Perspective on Patriotism

After all, I had played in hundreds of sporting events that began with the Star-Spangled Banner. I had heard it more times than I could count. Like a lot of athletes, I stood respectfully while mentally preparing for the game ahead. When the anthem ended and the crowd cheered, it simply meant it was time to play – not because I didn’t respect what the national anthem represented; it had just become such a familiar part of the routine. But especially over the past couple of years, I have found myself listening a little differently, really thinking about the words, the history behind them and the people who have served under our flag. If I am being honest, I spent years singing those words without really thinking about them: “The rockets’ red glare. Bombs bursting in air.” They were simply part of a song I had heard all my life.

The Everyday Presence of Veterans

This experience highlighted a crucial need within our community: a greater understanding and appreciation for the experiences of veterans. Too often, we offer platitudes and symbolic gestures without truly engaging with the realities of military service. The author’s story serves as a gentle nudge for residents to actively listen to the stories of veterans, to acknowledge their sacrifices, and to offer support beyond superficial expressions of gratitude. The impact extends to families, who often bear the silent burden of deployments and relocations, and to the broader community, which benefits from the sacrifices made by those who serve. Local organizations, such as the Lima Action group, often work to connect veterans with resources and support networks.

Remembering Beyond Veterans Day

This week, we celebrated Veterans Day, thanking those who served and recognizing the men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country. But as Nov. 11 came and went, I hope we remember that the people we honor on Veterans Day do not disappear all the other days of the year. They are woven into our everyday lives, quietly carrying experiences and memories we may never fully understand. Some may have experienced the unimaginable, and even a small part of what they have lived through could leave us speechless. Others have made sacrifices that look entirely different but are no less deserving of our appreciation.

A Call to Action

It’s crucial to maintain a consistent focus on supporting veterans and their families. This includes actively seeking opportunities to listen to their stories, volunteering at local veteran organizations, and advocating for policies that address their unique needs. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides a range of services and support for veterans, but community-level engagement is equally vital.

Nina's Reflections

What resonated most deeply with me in Sarah Shrader’s piece wasn’t the specific anecdote about being “bombed,” but the realization that so many of the people we interact with daily carry stories of profound sacrifice and resilience that remain largely unspoken. As a community, we celebrate those who serve, and rightly so. But celebration shouldn't end with a handshake or a pat on the back. It requires a genuine effort to understand the invisible wounds, the emotional toll, and the ongoing challenges faced by veterans long after they’ve returned home. The stability and strength of our families are inextricably linked to the sacrifices made by those who defend our freedoms.

The author’s emphasis on her daughter’s understanding of the national anthem is particularly poignant. It’s not enough to simply recite the words; we must instill in the next generation a deep appreciation for what those words represent – the freedoms we enjoy, and the price paid to protect them. Let us be mindful of the veterans in our midst, not just on Veterans Day, but every day, and let us strive to create a community where their stories are heard, their sacrifices are honored, and their needs are met. The challenges facing our nation are significant, but they can be overcome with a renewed commitment to service, sacrifice, and the enduring values that bind us together.

Looking Ahead

Moving forward, it’s essential to recognize that military service is not a singular experience. Each veteran carries a unique story, shaped by their individual circumstances and the specific challenges they faced. By embracing diversity of experience and fostering a culture of empathy and understanding, we can create a more supportive and inclusive community for all veterans. The author’s reflection serves as a powerful reminder that even the most ordinary conversations can spark profound insights and inspire meaningful action. Let us carry forward this spirit of inquiry and compassion, ensuring that the sacrifices of our veterans are never forgotten and that their contributions are always valued. Lima Parks and Recreation department can offer opportunities for veterans to connect through outdoor activities and community events.

To all our veterans, whether your service took you halfway around the world or kept you here at home, thank you for the sacrifices you have made, the time you have given, and the freedoms you have helped protect. Not just on Veterans Day, but every day.

Sarah (Pitson) Shrader was born and raised in Lima. She is a Lima Central Catholic and Tiffin University graduate. Sarah is a full-time working mama who enjoys writing about her somewhat crazy, always adventurous life as a mom and bonus mom. She lives in Bath Township with her husband, Lee Parsons, and their seven kids.