Nearing the End of Summer
"Finally!"
"Finally!"
"Where have you been Michael?"
"What's the excuse now?"
ME: There is none!
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- Friday, August 2nd, 2019
1:11
1311
Pacific Standard Time
VA Clinic - Mission Valley, California
15 minutes prior to 15 minutes prior to my appointment - while my laptop at home is on its last breath (2008 MacBook Pro!) - I decided to use the good old desktop computer at the workshop station before going into group therapy today.
"Dude, it's time to get a new computer!"
ME: I know right! I'm long overdue - like this blog entry.
Recently, I joined a group therapy class dedicated to writing "caring cards" for veterans transitioning out of the psychiatric unit. It's a Godsend! Every Friday, I meet with a small group of veterans, usually five or six dudes all from different eras (Vietnam War, Gulf, Operation Iraqi & Operation Enduring) who create small cards using art and other materials. Each card contains an encouraging message of hope. Sounds cute, but what many of you don't realize is that everyday 20 veterans take their own lives! I take this group seriously. Not only does it greatly impact me and my recovery, but it gives veterans the reassurance that they are not alone in the fight. While post-traumatic stress affects every individual differently, it is not prejudice against race, gender, or religious affiliation. Mental health is health, and so it is time to eliminate the stigma that we should stay silent and not ask for help. We should encourage a holistic way of taking care of ourselves, and that is why I am a part of this group. Like I said earlier, it's a Godsend.
1:20
1320
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Unofficially, August is Men's History Month. Although not publicly recognized, this is a grass-roots movement to pay homage to the great men who have contributed to my success and ultimately, my survival.
I would like to publicly acknowledge Mr. Jonathan Black. I met Jon during my time in the Marine Corps. Jonathan Black is a Navy Chaplain and is currently serving to this day. He was my Chaplain and mentor and later, became my friend. He helped me in many ways both emotionally and spiritually and to this day continues with me on this journey of recovery. His ability to bring people together from a mass of denominations is profound. Truly, I say, it is amazing what he does!
He is a husband, father of two, and a friend to many. My only regret is that we waited to long after my end-of-service to reconnect. Nevertheless, we are back in contact and hopefully, if the Lord is willing and the creek don't rise, we'll be having a reunion along with some other hobbits (inside joke) next year. I love you, man! Thanks for everything Black Man (another inside joke), God bless you and your family and again, thank you for your service.
#MensHistoryMonth #TrueMasculinity #WhatIsaMan
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Pain-level: 3
Currently reading: Grateful American by Gary Sinise
Currently listening: Romance of the Violin by Joshua Bell
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Mystery-link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oa7KFJdZVe0
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@godsplan1989
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