Jun

18

WARRIOR’S JOY

Filed Under Tears of Joy 

smileThe computer screen is dark, waiting for its colorful icons to magically appear when the master switch is ignited. Once up, we look for the message, just like in the movie, “You’ve Got Mail.”  Mail from family, friends, and unknown friends – business mail, personal messages, Facebook, funny facts, the list is endless. What we await are comments regarding our book, Tears of a Warrior, and our website blogs.  And there they are; messages telling us precious stories, battle experiences, challenges of living with PTSD, and concerns from parents, spouses, and children who live with a combat sufferer. One comment caught my eye. It was not meant as a criticism as the writer wanted to be sure to clarify. His exact words, So as you start your sequel to Tears of a Warrior just maybe you should take a look at the tears of joy. Not at all meant critically but in a fashion of hope. So Buddy, this particular blog is in honor of your comment.

 

Tears of a Warrior addresses the challenges of living with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, both as a sufferer and those who spend their lives supporting, observing, and being an intregal part of the journey. In any life there are tears. Tears of sorrow. Tears of regret. Tears of despair and hopelessness. And, just as significant, Tears of JOY. Below is a list of some of our Joyful Tears. As you read this blog, think about your life and smile, for like us, we are optimistic that you have experienced similar joyful events. Make your own list. Before you go to sleep and when you wake up each morning read over the list. You may find that in spite of the sadness, your life has also been blessed with many breathtaking, joyous moments.

 

Our Tears of Joy List:

 

  1. The birth of our sons
  2. Holding a tiny new life in your arms and smelling the sweetness of a true miracle
  3. The growing love of family and friends
  4. Watching a vibrant canvas of sky at sunrise and sunset
  5. Giggling over the crazy antics of a beloved pet
  6. Observing the changes of seasons, each with its spectacular scents and hues
  7. Celebrating holidays and birthdays with loved ones
  8. Eating your favorite ice cream on a hot summer day
  9. Knowing that we are constantly being watched over by someone/something greater than ourselves
  10. Watching a flag presentation and understanding the incredible pride of being an American.

 

This is our short list, as every day we are given so many special moments that humble and inspire us to be better, more grateful people.  Yes Buddy, you are quite right, we must never fail to recognize and acknowledge all of our tears, especially our Tears of Joy. Perhaps, even those tears split in sorrow, carry their own reflection of Hope.

Comments

One Response to “WARRIOR’S JOY”

  1. Sarah N. Mess on March 11th, 2010 2:06 am

    Tears of sadness, joy, and relief…all in one…to finally have a book in hand that explains the unexplainable…this book goes everywhere with me since I got it just a few weeks ago…avoidance, difficulty concentrating, and fatigue keep from getting too far along in my reading. I just know that there are many truths told here that put words to this battle with PTSD. EVERY VETERAN coming off the plane should have a copy of this book, standard issue…like TA50.