I have a voice

Something jerked my chain recently. In 2 months Terry and I will be celebrating our 40th wedding anniversary. Throughout our marriage we’ve dealt with PTSD made worse by a dysfunctional childhood. I don’t tell you this to garner either celebration or sympathy but to tell you I know what I’m talking about.

On Facebook, someone posted a photo of a bearded pot-bellied guy standing behind a sign announcing a military veteran lived there and asking people to monitor their fireworks on the 4th. After 40 years of PTSD, counseling, self-reflection and struggle, this one really jerked my chain. This was my response.

I am married to a delayed stress vietnam vet. I’m telling you right now, if you have problems with fireworks, get counseling and buy good quality ear plugs to wear for the 4th. Play music to help cover the noise. If you are a shooter, wear your shooter ear protection. They are excellent for this type of noise. And, most importantly, DO NOT use your disability to manipulate others’ actions. This is the worst kind of “feel sorry for me ’cause I can’t cope” crap. Get counseling, wear ear plugs and get the fuck on with your life. Having PTSD is no picnic but the longer you ask for accommodation and don’t get the help you need, the less life you will have to live.