Peer Emma
Open Arms Peers express their feelings on the situation in Afghanistan
My name is Emma and I am an Open Arms Family Peer based in South East QLD. The last week or so has been an interesting time for many of us in the veteran community. I share my thoughts on that situation both as a veteran, but most importantly as a family member, mum and wife who has dedicated hours, days, months and years trying to keep my family safe and protected ever since the day my husband returned home from Afghanistan injured, both mentally and physically.
Some kind souls have reached out to me over the last few days to see how I am going, and I haven’t really had the words to explain but I’m going to try now.
The truth is …I’m probably not as great as I’d like to be. I work with some truly incredible people. It was comforting (in a way) to know, after a recent work meeting, that I’m not alone in my thoughts.
The reality is that I’m angry, frustrated, emotional and pretty numb all at once. My family as well as many others have had their lives turned upside down in some way or another because of the Afghanistan War and the way I feel currently is FOR WHAT?? I am very grateful that my beautiful husband came home as I have friends who were not so lucky which breaks my heart. I have met parents who have lost their sons and I know people who have died by suicide … all because of the Afghanistan War.
Right now, I honestly feel like every loss was a loss that didn’t need to happen. My family and many more around the world have created new normals and rebuilt our new lives to deal with the cards we were dealt. Some hands far worse than others. To those families, my heart breaks for you as no doubt you are reliving everything all over again as though your tragic loss happened yesterday. I see you.
If I could draw some positives from this absolute shit storm in a tea cup, it would be that kindness and support prevails. We have each other’s backs and whilst we never chose this, we have all become stronger over time. We did not have a choice. I’ve seen an outpour of support in and towards the veteran community that I have no seen for a long time. I am devastated for those in Afghanistan who have no idea what tomorrow holds but I’m also devastated for our veterans and the families who lost loved ones and friends and for those who came home but have never been the same.
Deep down I know that the Afghanistan War meant women and children in Afghanistan were able to do things they had never been able to do. For 20 years, lives were changed. I know that. But right now, for many, it’s hard to acknowledge this.
If you know any veterans or veteran families, reach out to them because they will appreciate your support.
Peer Emma
If you’re finding it hard to handle your emotions/trauma/anxiety etc. PLEASE reach out for a chat, we’re here 24/7 on 1800 011 046.