Believe me, I know how many of you just dread seeing the word on the page. I am not going to get political, I promise. I try to keep this newsletter no closer than the slightly ruffled edges of politics. I am from Kansas; I live in California. I have tons of friends and family on every side of every issue. There will never be a middle ground anymore, and I am embracing that.
I was born in an odd time, when there was never really a war to fight. The Gulf War lasted for a Tuesday, Iraq II: Mission Accomplished never really had that type of verve where you would need to rally and go, and my creaky bones would have been undesirable for whatever scraps remained.
I love military history, and I used to give tours at the World War I Museum in Kansas City. This is as close to service as I ever got, and even in this AI-flavored pic here I look dopey. My official position would have been German Target Practice. I am, however, always amazed by the bravery of those who serve and fight. They will forever be braver and better than I will ever be.
I believe in a healthy discourse--our nation was founded on it-- and I also know you don't have to support a war to support those fighting it. Famously, only 59% of Americans were fully behind World War II in 1944. Public sentiment changes all the time, and the lens of history is necessary. I honestly don't even care about any of that.
My nephew Luis (my sister Bridget's son) was a Marine and a complete badass. Due to an unfortunate injury, he was honorably discharged and will not have to fight. I think of it as a fortunate injury every day.
I know thoughts and prayers is an unfortunate cliche, but in a sincere moment without irony and a snide sensibility...my thoughts and prayers are with those people fighting and the six that have already fallen.
