Volunteering

[sonia]

I entered my Returning Veterans Project hours for the last 6 months. 26 free hours of bodywork to 7 clients. It sounds like less than I expected when I add it up, but it averages out to 1 a week, or at least 10% of my practice, since 10 hours/week is an upper limit. This is the fourth year I've participated.

I've worked with a lot of veterans and spouses, each challenging my preconceptions in their own ways. If I had to generalize, I'd say they're all pragmatic, dealing with what's in front of them with resigned patience and determined skill.

I am anti-war but pro-veteran, and I'm glad to be able to help these men & women & their families heal from the harm war has done.

Comments

[jesse_the_k]

I'm glad there's a way you can help!

Lately I've been ruminating on the elevation of "did their job" to "heroes," in particular relation to veterans. I think it's important to recognize that anyone doing their job well is contributing to the better well-being of all of us. But the adulation which rides piggyback with the label "hero," when that is routinely applied to all members of the military,* dilutes the useful idea of someone who makes an extraordinary effort, putting the good of others above their own.

Have your vet interactions offered a chance to consider the impact of the "hero army" frame? Does this justify paying troops not very much? providing a healthcare system which is discovered to be grossly deficient, very decade?




* (except for the ones who speak out for human rights)

[sonia]

The vets talk very little about their military experiences. Mostly I learn about the military from their demeanor. Polite, contained, well-practiced at dealing with bureaucracy.

I hear your point about "heroic" vs. "doing one's job." At the same time, killing and being killed aren't part of most jobs. ...thinks about industrial accidents... At least they aren't the main point of most jobs.

I think low pay and low quality healthcare are part of overall oppression. Poor men (and women) fight rich men (and women)'s wars. If soldiers were protecting us from real threats, they'd look a lot more like heroes. Protecting rich people's profits just doesn't have the same ring to it.