The Blog
Posted on March 31st, 2010 by Donnie“The experience of being in war alters a person’s way of being in the world. The specific lived story that takes place within each individual [and in each family] then becomes both the tale of trauma and the source of healing.” -Michael Meade
Please join Veterans Heart Georgia, and others everywhere in telling your stories of growing up in a family during a war or in a family in which a member was a war veteran. Narrative, or story-telling, is age-old and has been known to provide and nurture healing down through the ages.
We are inviting people over age 18* to use this blog to write and share–perhaps for the first time ever– the stories of the effects of war in their families. We see this process as opening awareness and overcoming isolation, and giving voice to long-held silence. Our intention is that this sort of exploration will lead to understanding, reconciliation, forgiveness and healing, even though in many cases the original pain occurred generations ago.
Family can include parents, children, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins. You may even remember the collective experiences of close friends and members of your community. Veterans, you are encouraged to write about your experiences within your family of origin, the family you left to join the military, and the family you came home to.
The experience of war and the effects of war encompass not only those who served in combat, but being anywhere with the military during wartime, or being excluded from serving. The experience of war includes civilians living in countries where war is fought, as well as civilians waiting for service members to return from war. The experience of war is about goodbyes, homecomings, loss and grief, terror and horror, and continues after the war has ended as well.
We expect that you will respond to the postings of others with respect and kindness. At times you may notice the impulse to give advice or try to help, or “fix” something for other bloggers. Try not to act on this–we are simply Speaking (writing) and Listening Deeply to each others experience.
You may chose to use a “nickname” if privacy is a concern.
All posts are read by Editors prior to being posted.
*a special blog for tweens and teens is coming soon
Join the Discussion!
This is a great service that Veteran’s Heart Georgia is offering!
There is a feeling of safety here. I am glad you are taking Just Listening to another level. When I’ve tried to explain Just Listening to friends, it has always been hard for me to put it into words. Now I can just refer them to The Blog… Thanks, VHG for all you are doing!