Our first morning after our return from our short vacation the phone rang...too early for us weary travelers. Bob leapt out of bed with "Welcome back"!
I am back to my interviews and writing. I can't believe how much I learn from each of the veterans who share a part of their life with me. I am a stranger to them, and not a veteran, but they offer a story of their work, struggles and hopes for the VA. Some of them have a difficult time sharing stories that they have not shared with anyone else, except, perhaps with the counseling program at the VA. I am humbled by their willingness to try to save our hospital in Hot Springs.
I know one thing for sure...no matter how all of this turns out, my life has been enriched by spending time with our veterans. Their accounts touch me deeply and I know that I will, and am, viewing many things in life with a greater understanding and empathy.
I am grateful to be a part of the campaign to save and grow our VA in Hot Springs. I am grateful to become a small part of the lives of the men and women who have served our country. I am grateful to live in this country, with all of its flaws. I am grateful to be at home again.
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