I just finished viewing my annual all-nighter of watching Tom Hanks and Stephen Ambrose’ “Band of Brothers”. I can’t help but think that as much as I have done, it does not compare to all these men have given of themselves: Physically, Mentally, and Emotionally. I can’t possibly think of a thing that could ever show my appreciation for every thing that you have given and to show my thanks. I could only dream of a moment where I could meet each of you to shake your hand, or anyone else that gave everything.
I look back at my own life, and think about the numerous things that I, and so many others have given up for others. I can think of Mary L, who had the shit kicked out of her to protect a youth from 9 others who were trying to attack him; or maybe it’s Mike who dislocated his arm attempting to protect his group from someone who was violent. But none of it seems like enough.
I spend much of my time now working with mentally ill teens, many of which are not successful, either due to them being so mentally ill, or have been so far damaged by their parents. In some ways I relate to the guys at Bastogne. Limited tools, limited resources, and basically stuck, knowing I just need to do what I need to do knowing that perseverance just may pay off, but at the same time watching my team being worn down. I can’t help but think of the guys that spent that time in the woods with limited food, freezing cold, and watching their brothers die around them, thinking that this is nothing compared to what they went through.
At the same time I can identify with them, that empty feeling, wondering, what is it all for, just hoping that I have the strength to persevere.