Today is a good day to ask yourself what you believe. Or, perhaps more appropriately, how strongly you believe what you believe.

We all have things we believe in. But what would you do for those beliefs?

It's one thing to talk about what you believe within the safe comfort of like-minded friends.

But it's riskier to talk to folks where you haven't determined whether they believe what you believe or not. Will you be ridiculed? Scorned? Is your ego strong enough to endure that for something you believe in? If it is, then your belief is stronger than your ego.

What about talking to folks that you know are antithetical to your beliefs? It's one thing to say you believe that all men are created equal, it's another to say that to a racist who may actually take a swing at you to correct your beliefs. Are you willing to put your beliefs above your body? To risk a fight with someone over what you believe to be right?

But the question doesn't end there. Indeed, bruises will heal and broken bones mend, but do you believe strongly enough to willingly give your life to further those beliefs?

Many men and women around the world have risked their lives in exchange for their beliefs. Many have paid the ultimate price for their beliefs.

And today, on the anniversary of the 11th second of the 11th minute of the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we salute those who served and fought for what they believed in, both those who made the ultimate sacrifice and those who were willing to.

I only hope that the future will prove their sacrifice worthwhile.

Peace, gentle readers, and find a veteran or active service member and thank them, if you can.