Let us demonstrate our gratitude for Veterans

As with so many things in life that seem overwhelming, most problems can be solved in small steps. One small step builds the momentum required to tackle the next small step and those steps can add up to a big shift in perspective and then lead to solutions. It all starts with the first small step.

One issue we feel so strongly about here at Max and Steven’s is suicide prevention. The rate of suicide among our Vetrans is staggering. According to current data, approximately (or an average of ) 22 American Veterans commit suicide daily. The exact number is impossible to know as it varies day to day and also because reporting of suicides may lag or even go entirely unreported given the private and personal nature of the situation. Still, imagine 22 suicides each day. 22 lost lives and countless families left behind to make sense of it. Survivors left to try and put the pieces of their lives together in some sort of semi-cohesive way. To deal with the collateral damage. To explain to the children. To comfort the parents. To move forward in some way. To exist in a new reality filled with a flood of emotions and grief. 

Also, if you haven’t already seen it, watch Unprescribed– a film by Steve Ellmore Studios and Allegiance Films. Watch the movie and consider supporting their ongoing mission to save lives by ending suicide by Veterans. You can stream the movie for free on Amazon Prime. Visit http://www.theunprescribed.org to learn more.

In the meantime, next time you thank a Veteran, don’t end the conversation there. Maybe more words aren’t necessary to keep that conversation going. Maybe a shared moment of reflection or a handshake or a meaningful glance into the eyes of that Veteran can be action that makes the difference.

Sentimentality aside- take action. 

Let’s do something. Let’s make a difference. Let’s demonstrate our gratitude. Let’s change lives. Let’s save a life with the knowledge that it can change the world.