04/02/2023
MY VETERAN BROTHERS AN SISTERS
I think of some of the greatest times I have had in my life and smile. Looking back on my life, I recognized those smiles were really short lived and over shadowed by pain that I tried to keep down and hide.
Over the last couple of years, I am so very grateful for the people who have stood by me and supported me though my darkest day and even weeks, especially the fellow Veterans I have talked with, listened to, and cried with when addressing our demons we carry with Post Traumatic Stress.
For so many years I dismissed what was going bad in my life as “just life” and refused to accept that anything was wrong with me. I did not what to look weak in the eyes of the people around me, as I have always been the strength and protector. It took groups of Veterans I have met and talked with, who found a way to come to terms with their PTSD. They helped me recognize that I am not weak or worthless. They help me realize that as a Veteran with PTSD, I have so much opportunity to use my experiences to help other Vets just through listening and understanding. They were right!
I still have my struggles and bad days, sometimes more than days, and I always will, but I no longer run from those issues and I recognize them for what they are.
Thank you to those Brothers and Sisters that have been there for me and allowed me to be vulnerable without being judged! And thank you to my family that has not given up on me and knows that I will always do my best to be there for them.
If you are a Veteran who is struggling or you know a Veteran who is struggling, reach out to the Veteran Crisis Line by dialing 988 and then Press1 or text 838255. This service is confidential and free. YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!
Tony