By Fr. Justin Fulton
Growing up, I always loved this time of year. I always looked forward to the binding spirit of patriotism that would bring my hometown of Auburn together. This time was always remembered as a solemn time, remembering the birth of the United States Marine Corps Nov. 10 and then celebrating all veterans on Veterans Day Nov. 11.
The town would pause and remember those who gave to a cause bigger than themselves. We reflected on what it meant to sacrifice for a cause worth fighting for: freedom and the rights of every human individual. At the Legion Park, volunteers would place flags for each veteran who served from Nemaha County. It is always an awe-striking sight and it hits you in the core to see little ol’ Nemaha County impacting the world. At the local high school, a town gathering would commence on Veterans Day with local members of the American Legion and the VFW. The elders of the town, the veterans, teachers, parents and all would teach the students and youth that freedom was never free and that we all should remember and appreciate those who fight for our country.
Veterans Day was always a melancholy celebration. I remember talking with guys like Wes Ebeler and Alvin DeBuhr. They would share stories of World War II and Korea. My dad would tell me stories of his service in Vietnam as a member of the Marine Corps. Other veterans would tell stories that would bring laughter. Other stories would often bring tears. And stories would bring up old wounds that obviously affected the veterans at the present time. War for these small-town heroes was always seen at best as a necessary evil that unfortunately kills people, physically and emotionally.
All of us know people who have served our country. And many of those people still battle the wounds from service and war. PTSD, anxiety, depression, flashbacks, nightmares, anger and regret, substance abuse and more still affect many service members, veterans, and their families. All of us are affected when one person suffers. The fall of Adam and Eve created a great chasm in our very selves and the human condition suffers physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually because of the human condition.
Our counselors at the Immaculate Heart of Mary Counseling Center aim to accompany and help individuals who suffer mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Mental healthcare is indeed healthcare. We are blessed in our diocese that we have health professionals who integrate faith with the science of mental health care. Our counselors are able to help anyone in our diocese—in both urban and rural settings—as we have a physical clinic and also telehealth capabilities. They are licensed, respected, top-rate professionals in their field. They are followers of Jesus Christ, the true Healer and Redeemer. And they stand ready to help restore individuals who need to find Light in the darkness.
Do not be afraid to seek the help of our Immaculate Heart of Mary Counseling Center. We can be reached at 402-489-1834. We have some of the best clinicians in the country who bring healing and hope to individuals and families right here in our own backyard.
May God bless us all!
