We are soldiers, we are medics, we are firemen, we are police officers, and guess what? YOU’RE ALSO HUMAN! I would be worried if you didn’t have an emotional response over some of the events we are called to. Like it or not, it’s part of life. The good news is you are not alone. Countless others, maybe even the people you work with every day, feel the same way.
But I’m a medic! I see this all the time!
But I’m a soldier! We don’t have feelings!
But I’m a police officer! I’m trained to handle this!
But I’m a fireman! I’ve been through this before!
The problem with these ideas? They have NEVER been true! We as public servants have spent too much time trying to be superheros, and not enough time allowing ourselves to be human beings. You have the right to care, to feel, and when it comes down to it, to cry.
For those of you suffering in silence, you are never alone. Others suffer too. I suffer! If you need help, get help. It takes a strong person to say I hurt; they are not easy words, but they are essential. I am not a professional, and I can’t give treatment. But I can lend an ear. And always ready to take a walk with you.
Let’s take a walk 