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Today, November 11, 2016 is Veterans Day, a reminder of the sacrifices that so many have made and are making on behalf of a grateful nation. When I see veterans old and young, I'm often brought to the edge of tears as I reflect on the price that is paid for the values that I hold in my heart, for the values that I live and teach my daughter, for those same values that she will one day teach her children. Those values include integrity, shared sacrifice, freedom, respect, kindness, justice, equality, hard work, excellence, responsibility, and opportunity.
In the summer of 2014, I stepped away from work and took my daughter on a National Monuments Tour through Washington DC, Philadelphia, and New York City. I wanted her to gain a sense of her country, her history, and her story. I showed her people, places, events, and things that have shaped America and the world that she contributes to as a citizen. Even at her young age, her contributions are being added to the tally of America's greatness. She now has a sense of our shared destiny. As with the many timeless quotes and lessons that we saw carved in stone for all time, so too are the core values that I strive to live as an example for her everyday.
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One country, one Constitution, one destiny
National Constitution Center (Constitution Hall) - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2014)
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Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope
Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, Washington DC (2014)
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Freedom is not free
Korean War Veterans Memorial, Washington, DC (2014)
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We have lots of work to do to expand on the great legacies and pathways that have been laid down for us, but I have no doubt that we will move forward together as one great and grateful nation. When I see pictures like the one below where my daughter and my niece can freely run up the stairs of the Lincoln Memorial in the summer heat without a care in the world, I know of millions who deserve my gratitude. On behalf of our family, I'd like to say to my fellow veterans:
"Thank you for your service!"
Lincoln Memorial, Washington, DC (2014)
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My contributions to US Veterans and Spouses continues through *FREE* 21st Century Leadership Programs and on-line courses. New course dates are from November 12, 2016 through December 14, 2016 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from 9:00 PM-10:00 PM. Attend all sixteen (16) courses or select the most relevant courses for where you are in your transition.
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Lillian Gregory is a passionate advocate for 21st Century Leadership with special focus on Women in Leadership, Women in Technology, and US Veterans and Spouses. She provides research, strategies, tools, workshops, and events to help close leadership and career strategy gaps. Download your FREE eBook from The Institute for Human and Leadership Excellence and get ready to climb!
© 2016 All Rights Reserved.
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