To officers around the nation,
On days like these, among many others, I salute each and every one of you. I can count on my fingers the number of controversial events that have occurred recently involving the force. It is so unfortunate that this country, and even many other parts of the world, can stereotype an entire group of men and women and consider them to be "villains." I ask everyone to imagine going out daily and putting their lives at risk, thinking in the moment, and making the best decision possible for themselves, their families, and the general public?
I consider you, as officers, to be American heroes. Who do we call when we need to be safe, in a time of need? You are a group men and women, young and old, who leave your houses each morning with the intentions of bettering their nation, and keeping us American citizens safe. As of January of 2016, 26 officers' lives have been taken via gunfire in the line of duty. To everyone else reading, can you imagine waking up for work and fearing for your life each day. Imagine how your husband or wife may feel, not knowing if you'll make it home?
We cannot disregard the lives that have been lost along the way on the other side of this thin blue line. However, why is it fair of the general public to consider you all as criminals here? I can say with certainty that you are not the bad guys. There may be bad officers -- but there are bad teachers, businessmen, doctors, and so on. The human race is one of a kind -- you will never find another species like us. Can you really classify a whole group of men and woman due to the actions of a select few, who were forced to make specific choices in the moment to protect the lives of others?
I recognize that this article is entitled, "A Letter to the Blue Lives that Matter," however I feel that it is important to address other lives that matter as well -- the lives of humanity. We are a large, diverse population in America alone. We differ in race, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, religious belief, income and many other factors. My beliefs, preferences, family history, or land of descent do not make me better or worse than you. All lives truly do matter, on both sides of this thin line.
In conclusion, I would like to thank each and every officer who wakes up daily to risk their lives for me. On days like these, and every other, I am so appreciative of what you do for this country. You truly make the world a better place, and I hope that one day soon, everyone will see the heroes that I see.
With much admiration,
A proud American
