Just like many events and get togethers this year, my family has decided that due to the rise of COVID-19 cases and all the new restrictions put in place, we should cancel our Thanksgiving.
It’s frustrating. With not much else to do right now, there’s nothing to look forward to. The holidays and being with my family was really the only thing good thing to look forward to this year. As difficult as it is, this is what we must do to keep each other safe. And by doing this, we ensure that the traditions and holidays get togethers within my family can continue for years to come.
Although things are hard right now, I choose to look at this like my deployments in Iraq. During that point in my life, there wasn’t much to look forward to. I knew deployment meant a whole year without holidays and birthdays. Yet, I also knew I was working toward something greater for the future. And compared to my deployments in Iraq, this is so much better. I’m home and comfortable on my couch. I sleep in my own bed. I can stream movies and play video games and take Zoom calls with family and friends. All of this is a thousand times better than what I experienced in my two years overseas.
So, let’s all hunker down and hang tight. We will get through this and have even better holidays next year because we will appreciate them even more.
About Bryan Anderson: Bryan grew up and resides in Illinois. Injured by an IED in October 2005, Bryan is one of the few triple amputees to survive his injuries in Iraq. He is an ambassador for the Gary Sinise Foundation and a spokesperson for USA Cares, which is focused on assisting post 9-11 veterans. Click here to learn more about Bryan.