mwanner1 wrote:
......I find it hilarious when others think it’s shameful to keep or display medals at home. I’m sure most of these folks do rock a tattoo and bumper sticker, neither of which I have or display.....
You seem to have taken offence at the fact that others don't share your reverence for the medals, which is unfortunate but I think you've misread the attitude behind it which is unfortunate. I can only speak for myself but I from what I've read I suspect most others feel the same:
I do NOT think it's shameful to keep or display medals at home. I just don't personally see much point. The events were important to me, but the medals are not. If the medals are part of the memory for you and thus of significant value, I have no intention of being derogatory about that. I can respect your preferences without sharing them.
The fact you assume those who don't value or display medals would have a tattoo or bumper sticker seems very odd to me - and leads me to think you've misunderstand something. Surely if someone doesn't see the point in putting one type of physical reminder on display, there's a good chance it goes for others too? Why would you assume otherwise? Sorry, I don't follow your logic.
If I was to assume anything it would be that those who get a tattoo would be very likely to also have medals on display!
Personally, I have medals in a bag as mentioned previously and I wouldn't dream of getting a tattoo or using a bumper sticker. But then I have zero tattoos and zero bumper stickers and that's not likely to change.
Incidentally, I do have a couple of IM mugs and pint glasses. I don't mind them since they serve a purpose besides what's written on them. They're nice to have but I'm not going to get upset if they get broken. Do whatever you like!