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Priya Iyer's avatar

Well-written! You’ve gotten the get-over-PTSD-by-willpower conversation exactly right.

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Mike Goodenow Weber's avatar

Thanks, Priya.

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De's avatar

Interesting read Mike. I often wondered how soldiers of WWI coped with the after affects, as we know few talked about it but was that better or just stoic sign of the times. My uncle rarely spoke of his experience in the 2nd war only to clear up some myths about the triumphs of British and US soldiers in particular those in command. My uncle held a ridiculously high position as part of military intelligence. We never knew the organization he headed but later found that it was the inspiration for the James Bond books and so on. My uncle, hier to a throne and the most intelligent, warm and humble man I ever knew. His sacrifice was great in, during and esp. after the war

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Mike Goodenow Weber's avatar

Extremely interesting, De.

My father was a Navy Lieutenant in World War II, but saw no combat. Even the grief from losing close friends could have lifelong effects, I'm sure.

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Felix Purat's avatar

An enjoyable quaint yet somber slice of life from a time long past. Even though Francis does need medical help, seeing the kind of community people had back then is the most moving part of this chapter for me. Though I don't extend this dimension of the segment in this sense, it reminds me of when I read Manhattan Transfer, by John Dos Passos.

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Mike Goodenow Weber's avatar

Interesting. Communiity.. Good to know.

I tried a couple times but was never able to appreciate Dos Passos.

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Sue Cauhape's avatar

Decades ago while dining with friends and family, my friend's husband was telling us about Vietnam. I can't remember the exact words I said to him, but my remark brought us together in understanding the isolation of PTSD. We sat directly across the table from one another. Our eyes mat for an intense few moments and all other people and activity around us blurred. The residue of violence suffered by soldiers is the same as any victim of assault. No matter where or how the attack upon one's safety takes place, the impact is the same.

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Mike Goodenow Weber's avatar

Very well-stated, Sue. Thank you.

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Apr 16, 2023
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Mike Goodenow Weber's avatar

Glad you found it meaningful, Nadia.

Trauma remains a major challenge for so many people, for sure.

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