Dear Mr. President (2020)

Dear Mr. President,

I don’t know who uttered the words, “War is the devolution of man,” but I wholeheartedly believe that sentiment to be true. In every way imaginable, peace is more complicated and requires a better version of ourselves. Conflict and disagreements naturally pull us toward violence. Given the ease and access in which we can wage war, peace almost becomes a second thought. We seemingly thirst for war without much thought to the consequences, but we should not be mistaken. War has consequences beyond measure.

It was my generation who was called upon to defend the very idea of America after the September 11th attacks. I watched countless friends and my little brother answer the call. Thousands made the ultimate sacrifice and tens of thousands more returned home damaged both physically and psychologically. As is often reported, the suicide rate for service members is a national nightmare. Yet, it isn’t just service members who go to war. Families go with them. Watching my brother graduate from basic training at Fort Knox is an event I will never forget. I was filled with an immense sense of pride, but also fearful for his future. Around me, men and women greeted their families. I could sense in the room that my feelings were not my own. Thankfully, Clayton returned to us, for thousands of others, luck has been less than kind.