I have written a myriad of entries on the risk that holidays present to our veterans’ populations over the years and strategies to contend with the emotional rollercoasters we often experience this time of year. There is no question that for many people, including veterans, the Thanksgiving to New Year time period can elevate feelings of loss, isolation and the overwhelming nostalgia of passing time. We need to be aware of this reality in the midst of celebrating family and our normal rituals. Being mindful of our friends and families’ welfare during what is supposed to be a joyful season is critical as many may find themselves struggling. I stand by my previous recommendations to be forward in making calls, invitations and asking questions to our loved ones, especially during this time of year. It seems obvious within the spirit of the season, but with the busyness of holiday preparations and our often-cluttered lives, we must stop and purposely make those connections.
As for my fellow veterans and in the interest of getting out for healthy activities, I strongly recommend volunteering for a variety of reasons. This, of course, with reaching out to friends and family to attend gatherings. Volunteering during this time of year is not only the right thing to do in terms of meeting the unmet or underserved needs of our society, but it provides many practical benefits to our veterans who may be experiencing the aforementioned feelings of loss, isolation and low self-worth. There are countless opportunities to volunteer within our communities and provide valuable service to others, while lifting up ourselves in a meaningful and enduring manner. Some suggestions include; the Veterans Administration Volunteer Coordinators (https://www.volunteer.va.gov/) or your local nursing homes as just two examples. There are always unmet needs at homeless shelters, community centers and soup kitchens also (https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/how-to-volunteer). Of course two of my favorite Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) include Project Healing Waters Fly Fishing (https://projecthealingwaters.org/volunteers/) and The Travis Mills Foundation Veterans Retreat (https://travismillsfoundation.org/get-involved). As veterans, we tend to feel more at home with our fellow veterans, but the point is to get out and serve. By lifting up others, we will lift ourselves.
Above all, never forget that you are every one greatly loved, a national treasure, irreplaceable and the light of your life is essential in this world. I wish you all the blessings and joy you so richly deserve this season and in the new year ahead. Take care of yourselves and each other as we pass through another winter of ice fishing and fly tying in anticipation of the re-birth of spring just a few short months away. In the meantime, get out and visit old friends and family, while volunteering in your communities.
God bless,
Jack
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