Silent Tears, Part 1: Remembrance

Last week, I had the opportunity to see a video memorial to the men and women who

serve in the forces. It was in remembrance of the freedoms that we have that allow us to share our thoughts, ideas and to speak our truth.

While the video was playing, faces of veterans who had served were scanned across

the screen. As they stood silently at attention, I became focused on what they might be

feeling inside: their silent tears. The tears for their friends and comrades lost in battle;

those who came back never to be the same with their lives and worldviews changed

from their experiences; for their own stories of trauma, their grief and loss.

As a therapist, I was also reminded of my own silent tears. Tears that all therapists and

those who support and care for others feel. I have not served in war or been stationed

away from my family, yet, I have heard tremendous stories of loss, pain, violence,

trauma and death. I have held in my heart those who have shared their stories, and I

have cried silent tears.

Feeling these tears, I want to remember all the men and women in the forces, for the

sacrifices you make to protect, represent the countries you serve, and the risks you take

with your lives. This also includes the men and women who protect us in our

communities.

I also want to remember all of us who ‘serve’ others whether we are medical persons,

therapists, teachers and other educators and all others who support and care for

another person. May our ‘silent tears’ be held in honor as we remember those we have

lost, those whose stories changed our lives and for the times we couldn’t do enough to

help.

Take a moment of silence for us all and for those we have lost.

Joanne

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