Find an Outlet

First and foremost: I’ve been reaching out to people for various things lately and I have been completely overwhelmed with how awesome my support network is. Overall, I’m pretty damn lucky to be able to have all the people in my life that I do! It’s hard though, too, to be able to get together with these people and I often find myself misty eyed and frustrated that when they reach out to me that I’m too busy. I’ve got to find an outlet that assists me in order to get my chores and life in order to help those that need it most. Moreover, I need to find an outlet that many groups can do together separate! Something that I can go back and forth and not feel guilty about not having all my support peeps in the same place at the same time because not all of them get along.

Secondly: this is the precursor to what I wanted to write about today. I have plenty of hobbies that I love to do, and plenty of my support groups work within those hobbies as well, just not everyone at the same time. But it is important to identify that there are people that won’t be able to be in those groups at the same time AND enjoying what I enjoy at the same time. For example the bourbon club is probably not going to enjoy mountain biking the same. There may be some overlap, but it’s not gonna be a lot! Now that being said, bourbon clubs and theology are hand-in-hand… just saying.

As both a person and a Veteran of the United States Military, it’s crucial to find your passion and purpose. Discovering the niches where you truly belong can make a significant difference. I have several interests myself, but I also work full-time (fortunately from home) and have children who both support me and help me stay grounded. Unfortunately; I do work a lot and I have a lot of people ask me to do things for them as a side job and often I’ll do it as a favor; making my time even more limited.

Gangs, Clubs, Groups, All the Same

Creating a sense of need amongst peers is often the reason gangs, clubs, and groups exist. People don’t like being generalized because it marginalizes them and their humanity. But many need to have someone they can identify with together. I love FreedomSystem.org, because I feel like it gives something to Veterans whom need it. Hell, I get things out of it, to be honest, being able to help those that need help - helps me! I have an urge to serve and it compels me to keep doing what I like to do!

Realistically, it helps me focus on what I truly enjoy—designing marketing materials. However, I no longer want to do it as a job because, over time, it started to feel like just that—a job. What I love is the creativity it allows me to express. It has also connected me with amazing friends who share similar passions. Beyond that, the camaraderie programs I’ve been part of have helped me learn more about myself and what I truly need.

“Women are from Venus…” yaddi yaddi. You know the saying, and I am quite fond of my wife and daughter, but there are things that I cannot truly always express to my wife. There are things, as a man (and Combat Veteran) that I cannot share with my wife, mother, step-mother, grandmas, aunts, daughter- you get the point. That’s why the camaraderie groups come in and often are nuanced enough to keep people that don’t have the same interests out. Honestly, most civilian males wouldn’t get it either.

Healing in Group

I don’t know if therapy is what I want to ever do again. I mean… I’m currently absolutely opposed to it right now. I don’t want to tell my story yet again. However, I’m not saying never again. I’m just saying not now. However, being around my friends that are like-minded, have grown through similar experiences- that’s where my healing is making way. It’s important to realize that healing comes from all angles and sometimes it comes from people you never would have ever thought it would.

I have a friend who isn’t a Veteran that has helped me in so many ways, probably without even realizing it. His passion for learning through FSO not only educates him but also helps me heal—whether through his random posts, jokes, pictures, or simply being part of his daily life. To me, that’s incredible, and it makes a real difference in my own day-to-day life. People like that are truly the best. I hope, even if just for a moment, they understand the impact they have on others and know how deeply appreciated they are. I want to be that person for others and I hope that I can be!

Group settings are incredibly important because they bring people together to learn, grow, and support one another. They provide a space for healing—even for those who may not realize they need it. Perhaps they’re not broken at all; maybe they just need connection. Either way, the opportunity to engage with others is invaluable.

Learn Your Group

Get to know your group and understand who your friends truly are. If you have multiple friends, each one likely brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and strengths. Recognizing these differences can help you navigate challenges, grow, and find support in different ways. Some friends might offer emotional support, while others provide practical advice or hands-on help. By understanding what each person brings to the table, you can build stronger connections and create a supportive network that benefits everyone involved.

That’s All For Now Folks

Welp that’s now off my chest! Look forward to the next time I write. Thank you all for helping me write this by reading it.

Until next time:

Sláinte