One of Those Days

If it weren't for NaBloPoMo, I definitely wouldn't be posting today. It was just another one of those days when the day ran longer than my energy.

I did find it interesting -- challenging, really -- to try to explain to a preschooler exactly what Veteran's Day was and why it was a school holiday today. She likes holidays so there was no complaint about missing school today!

And I told her that today was the day each year that we honor all the men and women who have served in the military. But how do you explain the military to a young kid? Or war?

Sure, I told her that the military protects everyone in our country. But as a mother, I try to teach my child that violence is wrong, that might doesn't make right and that hitting and/or intentionally hurting another person is always wrong.

Don't get me wrong. I totally believe that the military serves an important purpose, even if I don't like our current war in Iraq. I don't mean to diss anyone who is serving or previously served in the military. I made a point of telling my daughter that both her grandfathers are veterans and today was a holiday to honor them as well as other veterans.

I just found it all very complicated to try to explain to someone who has no concept of wars and history. And I didn't really want to tell her that something like war exists in modern day. It's an ugliness that I don't want to expose her to, even if it is part of human life.

If I have offended anyone, I apologize. If you think I'm crazy, feel free to post a comment and tell me so, but please be polite.

And Happy Veteran's Day, everyone.