Ten sailors missing . . . darkness approached in Asia as helicopters searched the watery abyss of the Strait of Malacca. I hoped against hope every parent’s child is rescued alive—but doom about their fate overshadows my heart just hearing those words “rescue and recovery efforts.”Ten sailors missing . . . another kick in the Gold Star gut. That feeling burns within me once … [Read more...]
Lessons From a Grieving Mother Whale
Losing a child is a club you never want to join. Whether you lose a child in war, in womb or late in life, the loss of a child is a parent's worst nightmare and impossible to grasp without experiencing it first hand. Grief is a natural response when a loved one dies. The grief never goes away and you are forced to live with it and learn to cope with it for the rest of your time … [Read more...]
“Telling The Trauma:” What Happens in War
The trauma of war and our ability to talk about it is a constant battle. Not all experiences are the same, and consideration of each has equal importance.13 years ago, one of my non-commissioned officers died in an ambush (improvised explosive device) in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. Not unlike other somber anniversary, I reflect on the event, and do what I can to both … [Read more...]
From Ritual to Reality: Because He Lives
Originally published March 27, 2016 by Scoti DomeijMy annual nostalgia of Easter now blossoms in reverse. My firstborn was killed in Afghanistan in the fall of 2011, the wild season of skeletal trees surrendering their fiery leaves to swirl and spiral into oblivion. Winter’s crushing mourning forged ahead—unstoppable, bringing life as I knew it to an abrupt halt. … [Read more...]
From Ritual to Reality: Because He Lives
My annual nostalgia of Easter now blossoms in reverse. My firstborn was killed in Afghanistan in the fall of 2011, the wild season of skeletal trees surrendering their fiery leaves to swirl and spiral into oblivion. Winter’s crushing mourning forged ahead—unstoppable, bringing life as I knew it to an abrupt halt. Nothing prepares a parent’s heart for the horizon now darkened by … [Read more...]