As a combat veteran I can understand how hard it is coming back home for some of us. I can understand how dark the night can get and how lonely it can sometimes feel. I can understand how it seems like no one understands or cares. I can understand how certain memories just won't go away and crop up at the most unfavorable times. I can understand how sometimes it feels like others are so far removed from what you know of the world that it is frustrating to the point of anger then sadness, sometimes in the same breath. I also understand how at times it feels like you will never feel good or normal again....but it's not true. You will.
I promise that there is light and there are better days. Some people will never understand us but it's not their fault and it doesn't matter, because there are a lot of people who do understand, the many that do understand....we have been there. Just like basic training or SERE school, it is just something you have to experience to get it. We have been through a lot but we can hold on and weather the storm so we can see those sunny days on the other side of it and there will be those sunny days I promise. It may take some time to get there but you will.
My brothers and sisters in arms, if you get to a point where it gets dark and you need a hand. Please don't hesitate to call on a professional who can help. The Veterans Crisis Line is a great place to start 1-800-273-8255
If not the Veterans Crisis Line, then reach out to someone because those storms don't last forever I promise. Once they pass and you can see clearly again, that feeling is just like the sun coming out after a downpour and everything feels fresh again. Hang in there, get help (no different than combat support) and see the sun again. I look forward to seeing you at one of my shows so I can shake your hand.
I have added a charities section to the website if you are looking for an organization to support, donate to or to volunteer with. This March I am donating a portion of all my profits to The Gary Sinise Foundation.