Today, Memorial Day 2017, I want to think about the sacrifices made by so many people.
I found this royalty-free photo at Pixabay. It touched my heart and conscience. Not all come home to hug their loved ones. This picture says more than I can express with my words.
Because I care so deeply about mental health, I can’t help but think of those who come home, but are never the same. They continually live with the horrors of war that manifests as PTSD (Post-traumatic Stress Disorder.) The stressful environment they endured altered them forever.
“PTSD is a disorder that develops in some people who have experienced a shocking, scary, or dangerous event.
It is natural to feel afraid during and after a traumatic situation. Fear triggers many split-second changes in the body to help defend against danger or to avoid it. This “fight-or-flight” response is a typical reaction meant to protect a person from harm. Nearly everyone will experience a range of reactions after trauma, yet most people recover from initial symptoms naturally. Those who continue to experience problems may be diagnosed with PTSD. People who have PTSD may feel stressed or frightened even when they are not in danger.” National Institute of Health.
Today, I remember all those affected. The ones who made the ultimate sacrifice, their families, and the ones who battle once they return home.
I plan to spend time in worship, attend a ceremony in honor of this day at a local cemetery, and spend time with my mom. She and Dad married after he returned from WWII. He’s passed on, but she remembers. It’s the least I can do.
Virginia Pillars, Author 