Thoughts on Memorial Day
Good morning,
From where I sit and look out my window, it's a gorgeous day in New York City. The sun is shining and the temperature is perfect. Soon, I'll leave the inside for a walk along the Hudson River, 2 blocks from my apartment.
For others, today, it's a day of remembrance. Many served in various wars and many had their loved ones serve. And, we cannot deny the many who succumbed to the wars, including the present war. Their families will be honoring their losses today. And, for those who served and returned, they too will honor their experience.
As the "head boomer" ... born on the first day of the boomer generation, WWII was already over. I didn't know anyone who served in Korea, at least not to my knowledge; however, I knew people who served in Viet Nam. In fact, my college boyfriend was a medic. We wrote everyday for a year. Thankfully, he made it back, we broke up. Then, about 3 years ago, we found each other on the internet and have become friends. Interesting!
I'm not going to write here now of my opinions of war. Suffice it to say that I was a "typical" 60's generation person who protested, BUT, I was very conflicted. I was against the war in Viet Nam, but I wore a prisoner of war bracelet. Then, in the eearly 70's, I moved to Japan, compliments of the Dept. Of Defense Overseas Teaching Program and taught elementary and special education to military kids at Camp Zama . I had two wonderful years there. The interesting thing about Camp Zama was that it was the Army Headquarters for the region AND it housed the hospital where all severely wounded soldiers were sent to heal. I even dated some of those boys. Needless to say, I was very conflicted. I opposed the war, but supported the troops and I taught the children of many who served. In it's own way, all that influenced me to return back to the States and get my Social Work degree and then practice psychotherapy for 30 years. It was my way of dealing with human suffering, conflict and more.
So, while we all honor those lost today, we get in touch with how their sacrifice impacted our lives ... and maybe contributed to who we are today. For that, I lift my hat in thanks!
I intend to spend the day ... first walking outside, enjoying Nature. Then, I'll have a serendipitous day -- it's unplanned and I'll see where my walks take me.
I wish you the sort of day that will feed your soul, honor your loved ones and help you see all that you have and can be grateful for.
Ann
From where I sit and look out my window, it's a gorgeous day in New York City. The sun is shining and the temperature is perfect. Soon, I'll leave the inside for a walk along the Hudson River, 2 blocks from my apartment.
For others, today, it's a day of remembrance. Many served in various wars and many had their loved ones serve. And, we cannot deny the many who succumbed to the wars, including the present war. Their families will be honoring their losses today. And, for those who served and returned, they too will honor their experience.
As the "head boomer" ... born on the first day of the boomer generation, WWII was already over. I didn't know anyone who served in Korea, at least not to my knowledge; however, I knew people who served in Viet Nam. In fact, my college boyfriend was a medic. We wrote everyday for a year. Thankfully, he made it back, we broke up. Then, about 3 years ago, we found each other on the internet and have become friends. Interesting!
I'm not going to write here now of my opinions of war. Suffice it to say that I was a "typical" 60's generation person who protested, BUT, I was very conflicted. I was against the war in Viet Nam, but I wore a prisoner of war bracelet. Then, in the eearly 70's, I moved to Japan, compliments of the Dept. Of Defense Overseas Teaching Program and taught elementary and special education to military kids at Camp Zama . I had two wonderful years there. The interesting thing about Camp Zama was that it was the Army Headquarters for the region AND it housed the hospital where all severely wounded soldiers were sent to heal. I even dated some of those boys. Needless to say, I was very conflicted. I opposed the war, but supported the troops and I taught the children of many who served. In it's own way, all that influenced me to return back to the States and get my Social Work degree and then practice psychotherapy for 30 years. It was my way of dealing with human suffering, conflict and more.
So, while we all honor those lost today, we get in touch with how their sacrifice impacted our lives ... and maybe contributed to who we are today. For that, I lift my hat in thanks!
I intend to spend the day ... first walking outside, enjoying Nature. Then, I'll have a serendipitous day -- it's unplanned and I'll see where my walks take me.
I wish you the sort of day that will feed your soul, honor your loved ones and help you see all that you have and can be grateful for.
Ann
Labels: BAby boomers, Memorial Day, personal growth
posted by Ann Fry, Head Boomer at
9:20 AM
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