From Soldier’s Son to Magician: Why Sharing Magic with Veterans Changed Everything

My father's sacrifice taught me that magic isn't just tricks-it's about honoring those who served.

“Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.” – Roald Dahl

Yesterday, I didn’t perform a magic show.

I taught one.

At the Veterans Home of California in Barstow, I walked in with a simple goal: to share a few basic tricks that could help exercise both hand and brain muscles. I brought sponge balls, rubber bands, and pencils that “float.”

What I didn’t expect was what happened next.

Most of these veterans are in wheelchairs. Many began the class with blank, tired expressions. I wasn’t sure how many of the 15 participants would actually want to try. But one by one, something shifted. They picked up the props. They gave it a shot. And suddenly—smiles. Laughter. Clapping. For a short moment, these brave men and women became kids again, full of curiosity and joy.

At the end of class, I made sure to shake every hand in the room. The faces that had started the day expressionless now carried a light—pure joy, pure wonder.

People ask me all the time: “Is magic real?”

The answer is yes.

Because when you see a hero who’s given so much rediscover the simple, childlike joy of wonder—you realize that magic doesn’t live in the trick. It lives in the smile it creates.

And for me, this mission is personal. My father proudly served in the Army, and growing up with his example of strength, sacrifice, and service inspires me to honor veterans every chance I get. Sharing magic with them feels like a way of carrying his spirit forward.

Today, those heroes reminded me why I do what I do.

Share this if you believe that no matter your age, your story, or your scars—magic is still out there waiting for you.

-Jonathan Molo

"The Man in the Purple Suit"