I have met Aaron who helps run the OKC chapter. Before meeting him, I had been told, “I got you,” well, I was alone and after 15 years of career firefighting and 6 years in the Army. I was broken. I got medically retired from both and the reason I was so attracted to those jobs, was simply the camaraderie and the brotherhood. I never really experienced that until as of late and he has helped change my trajectory for life more than he realizes. I originally donated to the cause because I knew of the mission and the men lost, but I never anticipated it turning into hope. I loved firefighting and truly helping people because I never wanted anyone to feel the way I felt inside with depression, shame, and just feeling unworthy of love. What came with firefighting was seeing the most heartbreaking things, especially when it comes to kids. I was broken. And that’s when I knew it was time to step away and actually start to get help for myself, but I didn’t know what to do. As far as the Army goes, I served in the OKARNG as an 11B/Scout. I love how when you are going through basic, they are teaching you that it’s about the people around you. You can’t let them down and if they need help you help. I always get asked, “what do you miss the most?” I smile and say the friendships. God then lead to real estate and I found Homes for Heroes which is all about veterans and other people as well. This world needs authenticity, love and God. Everyone at the end of the day wants recognition of some kind. Even a pat on the back saying good job! I am no where near perfect, but for those who read the good book, 2 Corinthians 4 is my favorite chapter in the Bible when it comes to being in the thick of it. One verse simply says, “for what we see is transient, but what is unseen is eternal.” Veterans and everyone else are struggling with something. There is so much pain out there and I try to use my words to encourage people and let them know they aren’t alone. Aaron was the first person who I had no connection with that came into my life and is just making me feel seen and heard. He has helped me so much and i hope I can do the same for someone else. I was in the VA parking lot last year and kept hearing in my head, “just do yourself a favor and end it.” Right then is when I took my mental health serious and realizing how much I was in repair. Don’t ever give up. Keep fighting. Isolation kills and remember that even in that worse moment, it will pass. Love you guys and we pray for vets every night before bed.
There is Hope
