Yesterday was Veteran's Day. My husband and I were driving to the Laemmle Theater in Pasadena to see Skin, a movie set in South Africa during apartheid about (what else?) tolerance. And on the back of a bus was a sign from the military. Seems they have a new motto. I'm doing it from memory but this was the approximage message:
One of the most important acts of courage from a solderi is to get the mental/emotional helps he or she needs.
Then my writing friend May Lattanzio sent me this link on mental health in the military.
I hope between the two, those in the military who need help will reach out and get it--both those I know and those I don't. If a doubt has ever crossed your mine that you are depressed, now is the time. It take strength to do it. Together--with support--we are strong.
So how does that relate to tolerance? Any soldier who thinks that getting help will result in criticism or censure will know the answer to that question. Really. It's time for a new way of thinking and loving one another. The strong way. The military way.
If you know someone in the military, please pass this on and ask them to pass it on. It will be a fine post Veteran's Day gift.
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Carolyn Howard-Johnson wrote the foreword for Eric Dinyer's book of patriotic quotations, Support Our Troops, published by Andrews McMeel. Part of the proceeds for the book benefit Fisher House. Her chapbook of poetry won the Military Writers Society of America's award of excellence. Find it at http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1599240173/. Her novel, collection of creative nonfiction and much of her poetry is informed by interest in leading the world toward acceptance of one another. Find her web page dedicated to tolerance at http://www.carolynhowardjohnson.redenginepress.com/tolerence_and_utah_links.htm.
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