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 about 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.

Those brave men and women of my generation who answered the call stand as a testament to the true costs of war. We would be wise to not forget their lessons and their collective sacrifice. In everything we do and every decision we make, we would be smart to think of them. We should never send them into battle without true consideration of the sacrifice we are asking them to make. We should pursue peace for them and because of them. To do so is not a sign of weakness. In my estimation, it is the ultimate sign of strength.

Mr. President, geopolitical tensions may pull you toward war, but nothing before you is unavoidable. Peace can be your legacy. For me, it will ring louder than conflict ever could and it might even usher in a new era for America’s standing in the world. For me, I would much rather be considered as a nation standing for unflappable peace instead of a country known for its military might. Sir, the decision is yours, but I implore you to think of those you would be sending before making a choice. Without a shadow of a doubt, some won’t be coming back home, and others will never be the same.

Be good to each other,

Nathan 

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