Today is November 11, or 11/11. It’s also Veterans Day, a day we honor members of the U.S. Armed Forces.
Here are some observations and tidbits igniting my curiosity about this day, and the issues I’m thinking about with respect to our veterans.
Numerology of 11
In Numerology, the number 11 is considered a Master Number, with very potent mystical qualities.
According to Numerology.com, Master Number 11 carries traits of harmony, empathy, and sensitivity, as well as innovative and motivated, open to new things and eager to make a difference. These traits combine to make a Master Number 11 a creative leader, active listener, and compassionate advisor.
It symbolizes doors of possibility opening; the number 11 looks like a doorway.
Numbers play out everywhere, and the more you look for synchronicity the more you see. It’s hard to miss the significance of 11 on this day.
According to Wikipedia,
Major hostilities of World War I were formally ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918, when the Armistice with Germany went into effect. At the urging of major U.S. veteran organizations, Armistice Day was renamed Veterans Day in 1954.
The origins of Veterans Day are filled with 11s.
Veterans Day vs Memorial Day
Veterans Day is distinct from Memorial Day.
On Memorial Day we remember those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle.
On Veterans Day we honor all who served honorably, whether during peacetime or wartime. Although on Veterans Day we do remember those who served and died, the dominant sentiment on Veterans Day is gratitude.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, this day
is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served – not only those who died – have sacrificed and done their duty.
Perhaps because Veterans Day isn’t made into a long weekend we don’t hear as many people wishing a “Happy Veterans Day.” Which is still a good thing.
Grammar Geek Alert
In case you’re wondering about where to put the apostrophe in Veterans Day, the answer is: nowhere.
According to the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the attributive (no apostrophe) rather than the possessive case is the official spelling because
it is not a day that ‘belongs’ to veterans, it is a day for honoring all veterans.
How Can We Honor Our Veterans?
The typical Veterans Day parades won’t be happening this year, and it’s worth considering if that’s the best we can do to honor those who have served our country.
One question on my mind:
How are we addressing the mental, physical, and emotional health issues of our military personnel, both during and after their service?
I don’t have any big answers today. It’s just something I’m thinking about.
I’d love to hear your thoughts about this issue or ideas you have about how we might better honor our veterans.
And if you’re a veteran, thank you for your service. ❤️🙏🏻🇺🇸
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