This week marks several things for us. First, it’s the week after Election Day. Second, Veterans Day is included in this week (November 11). Third, and more relevant to the year, 2014 marks the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War. Each of these may seem to have a distant relationship to your time at Mason, yet it’s helpful to take a look at them and see how they might relate.

First, Election Day. This is an opportunity for each of us to get involved with the governance of our nation, state, and local areas. We know that some elections across the country (and even locally) were settled by narrow a margin of votes; the old adage that "every vote counts" really showed itself. It’s vitally important to express our views during election day as well as throughout the year. On campus, there are elections with student government in the Spring, and different clubs and organizations have opportunities for elections of their leaders. Further, every person has the opportunity to voice his/her opinions about all aspects of campus life, whether through writing a letter to the editor of the campus or local paper, making suggestions verbally or in writing to various organizations (think of parking or housing or food services, for example). Let your voice be heard. Or, to coin a new adage, "how would they know unless I told them?"

Second, Veterans Day. Periodically in our culture we have days to remember, honor, commemorate, and celebrate various things. This week in November encompasses Veterans Day. Also noteworthy is that this year, 2014, marks a full century from the beginning of the "Great War" or World War I; it was also known as “The War to End War” or "The War to End All Wars." Some of your grandparents, great grandparents, or great-great grandparents were active in that war; some returned, some were injured, and some lost their lives. Some of you may have had family relatives in other wars (since, obviously, that war did not end all wars). And even more have had family members or loved ones who served to protect our nation, but may not have actually fought in a war or conflict. Whatever your involvement, it’s appropriate to pay our respects to our veterans – minimally on Veterans Day, but also throughout the year. Their sacrifice and service are important to our country, and to our world.

Putting these two thoughts together, think about your involvement in making your surroundings better. Think about what you can do, whether large or small, to make them healthier and safer. Think about your words – it may be a 'thank you' to a veteran or a person in uniform, or to someone else with whom you come in contact. Or, it may be through your involvement in a campus or community organization; see the organizational theme of "Service" with COMPASS, and the specific topic of “Volunteering and Leadership.” The opportunities are endless for your voice to be heard!