Here is a letter that somebody wrote to Michael Moore (I agree with the author* of the letter). It has been published on his website you can read it by following this link:
"...count to 10 when the memory hits..."
* indicates that the author may be known by Zach ;)
6 comments:
As a soldier, somehow we are just expected to deal with everything we come against as machines not humans. We are supposed to view everything black and white, good and bad. As long as our leaders and superiors say it is so then our conscience should not get in the way.
If I was told to count to 10 as a helpful PTSD cure... I think I would have, in a very "Nightmare on Elmstreet" type of way, in the office staring at them remotely.
I guess there is no advice to give. Until someone has lived through something similar, there is only sympathy without empathy.
I only hope every day I serve will be a chance for my son and my daughter to go through life without the need to do it themselves. Regardless from how the outcome occurs...we kill all the terrorists (fat chance), government reform (Bush out in 4 :)), US citizens cry out against wars (SATRT CRYING PEOPLE!)...
Just so long as each day matters. Changes something. Whether good or bad it will have ripple effects far beyond what each of us will have seen or understood. I just pray that all those ripples will end in peace on the shores of a better life for our worlds communities. Idealist maybe...but what else is there?
Man...I really don't know what to say. I remember you telling me about that shooting incident and I remember you telling me how it stuck with you, but I don't think that I ever truly "got it". Your letter to Michael Moore kind of drove it home, though. This war is a strange thing. I wanted to go to Afghanistan (going there made sense to me). I also wanted to go to Iraq (even though I didn't quite understand the logic behind that one). And even after looking at Erin, Rebecca, and Jacob, and knowing that the potential was there that they may become orphans if I went, I WANTED to go. Then I think about your experience and I think "why would anyone WANT that?" After I reflect on the fact that this is your second time over there AND that you are stop-lossed, and I start to realize who the real heroes are. I'm proud to be an American Soldier and I'd still be proud to go back over there if called upon, but it is knowing people like you, Zach, that makes being an NCO in today's Army worthwhile. I've known you since you were in AIT and now you are a no-shit NCO in Iraq! It may not be worth much to hear it from some shithead sitting out in Hawaii right now (by the way, are you coming out during R&R?), but I am more proud of you (as a Soldier, father, and friend) then I have ever been of anyone else in the military, period. We miss you, Bub.
God bless.
Letter to M. Moore...I respect your hurt and pain but be careful who you give this ammo to.
I work with your mom which is a blessing in itself. I know that she is so proud of you. After reading this, I can see why. You are an amazing young man. I am proud to know you through your mom.
My thoughts and prayers are with you. Marie
Hey son, Are you getting my blog comments now? Tonight Inga and I went to Nia with live drums. It's an exercise class and was awesome! Tomorrow we are going to a 2 hour African dance class. I love you so much and cannot wait to see you this summer! Love, Mom xoxo
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