Respect, Recognition, & Reaching out

Respect comes in many forms, including recognizing symbols of sacrifice and reaching out to acknowledge these experiences.

In January, while in San Diego for the Gracie Jiu Jitsu Academy and Wounded Warrior Seminar, Mike passed a small car in a parking lot. The license plate featured this image:

He immediately took out his business card and left a note acknowledging the sacrifice a Gold Star family member makes.

Later that day, Mike received a message from a young woman whose younger brother was a SSG in the U.S. Army. A 12 year veteran, he was killed in Afghanistan in June of 2012 on his 6th deployment.

The sister wrote “You have no idea how much it means to me that you noticed my Gold Star Family member plates and took the time to leave me the note…” and explained her loss and the meaning of the gesture. “The timing of your note couldn’t have been better. It would have been my brothers 34 birthday next Tuesday. Again thank you so much for your act of kindness today.”

Many of us are busy moving through the details of our busy lives. Sometimes we remember to thank someone who has held the door for us, or to wish others in the elevator a good day when we reach our floor. Sometimes we may forget that others are busy carrying baggage with them throughout their daily movements – and perhaps tending to important healing as well. But having our eyes focus on symbols of sacrifice remind us that character means giving respect and recognition to others.

A single act of kindness can make a difference. In every interaction, you have the opportunity to reach out to someone, to recognize their humanity, and understand their experience. Make the most of that opportunity and lead by example.

For more information on Gold Star Families and pins, please visit http://goldstarpins.org/