Having Post Traumatic Stress Disorder doesn’t mean I am emotionally broken, but it does mean that I rose to the occasion and battle conditions. It’s my emotional reminder of never giving in, no matter what the obstacle might be. In this soaring climate of malcontent and despair, veterans should rise above obstacles. But, unfortunately, the expectation is that we can handle all adversity no matter the odds, which is not true because Veterans have feelings of emptiness and not belonging that can enable mindlessness. So we cry, and sometimes there are no tears.
Emotions of anxiety often appear that leave us tentatively embroiled by delusion. Feelings of loneliness and not being worthy find harvesting ground within us. I didn’t realize much of what I had become because I didn’t know the signs. It was later that I noticed the war had already harnessed me and took over. Suddenly I was no longer the person I was before and became my stranger.
It was sad for me not to know who I was and not see my life as a reward. However, since I have mastered achievements and accomplished things I never thought would happen, I am thankful? Yes! Was I completely healed? No, because the war never leaves you, and you either bow in defeat or rise victorious.
This Article was Last Updated On: August 6, 2021