Wednesday 7 October 2009

A lesson in gratitude part II


I've recently joined this lovely women only social network. And I'm really enjoying being there. The icon on my side bar is the way there if your female, if not then don't bother!

I've had the pleasure to become 'friends' with several people already. One of them is a new friend who I obviously don't know as yet. But I picked up a comment she'd left on my real friend Sorrow's page. And I had to investigate.

Her son is a soldier who was shot in the back whilst out in Basra. He was told he'd never walk again. Well he wasn't taking any notice of those words and later this month he and four other soldiers are intent on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro.

Tonight I did two Tarot readings, the first ones I've charged serious money for, I said the money was for raising the roof on the school in Mozambique for which I have already raised some money. But having read the story of this young man the money has gone straight to him and his mates. They are trying to raise £100000 for Help our Heroes www.helpforheroes.org.uk

These young men and their colleagues they deserve our gratitude, regardless of whether we think the war is worthwhile or not.

And it puts my small broken bone into perspective really!

9 comments:

Anonymous said...

As terrible as it is that this young soldier was hurt (and that many others are hurt and killed, too), I think there are more worthy causes really. I know that sounds terrible, but, well, these young men *choose* to do this job, and that's the risk they take.

I live in the US, and I get a bit sick of the constant mythologizing of the US soldiers. Yes, I know they risk their lives defending the country but, Jesus, what about all the people who wear themselves ragged helping the disadvantaged in the more socially conscious professions? Why don't they get any glory? And why does nobody care about the people they're helping...the poor, the mentally ill etc?

speck of dust said...

It's great to help anyone who is struggling and suffering in any way we can. I think this is a wonderful thing you have done!! It is so sad that caring professions often pay so little and cause a lot of stress to those doing them. I also think if we all did our little bit whatever it is we will all be making a big difference. And that might be taking some soup to a friend who is ill or doing something for a neighbour. I believe the way to teach is by actions and the way to change is by action. And all we need is love :D X

Anonymous said...

Mandy I love that saying "People remember not how much you know, but how much you care".Like when a new member of the family is added, love and care can always expand to take in more. Thank-you for expanding horizons to include these brave people.I feel for anyone who wears themselves ragged, or puts others needs above their own to look after those who are vulnerable, or who indeed put lives on the line at the political or social behest of others.There are indeed many brave souls in the world, and don't underestimate your place in this,recognizing the need to call on inner resources in small acts of bravery every day.You're a gem - I'd like to think we all are,in spite of our imperfections, and all on a steep learning curve.xxxx

Fire Byrd said...

In defense of what Petrichoric says. I put my money where my mouth is- I have worked my entire working life in hospitals and doctors surgeries helping people. There are people alive because of me, which I am proud of.
So I already work in 'the more socially conscious professions'
I do not tell people who I give to, outside of my work, except yesterday. And my gratitude to these young men who are going to climb Kilimanjaro is not cause they are fighting for me, I never wanted anyone to do that. My gratitude is more complicated. They are someone's son, they are alive, they care about their comrades. We need to help these men, as they are so damaged by what they are going through. And I'm not talking physically here it is the emotional side that I am passionate about helping.Because if there is no help, then the damage doesn't stop with them it has a profound knock on result. And if I can do anything to help prevent, these soldiers, their partners their children from further damage ten that is a just cause in my opinion.

Anonymous said...

...I think you're right Byrd, gratitude can be a complicated thing.Everyone's comment, from the first comment through,should be interesting.I too see petrichoric's point in the last sentence, which expands even further to include budgets spent on war that could be better used elsewhere.My point is just to acknowledge bravery in all its forms, distinct from bravado.Sometimes we have to reach so deep to find it.

Angela said...

You are a good soul, Mandy, and we clearly understand your intentions. They are beautiful! And what Speck of dust and Pam said is also right and well put! If you are touched by someone´s fate, and if you want to share love (or your money, your time, your food), there is no weighing who "deserves" more. We are all somebody`s child, partner, neighbour... and no matter if we "deserve" it, we ALL love to be shown love. Your attitude is wonderful.

Lori ann said...

Angela said it beautifully, you are so lovely Mandy. I loved your post on gratitude as well. I've learned that lesson before (a few times), and it's always worth a reminder.

kj said...

fire byrd, i am going to enjoy your blog. i like your visitors already (ah, lori is here. that makes me smile).

i read tarots also and as you know, we share the same profession. i like the way you see and say things.

i signed up for the social network on your recommendation. be aware i am an aspiring babe, just so you know. :)

Jane Le Galloudec said...

The kindness of strangers is somehow more meaningful and always a suprise. And while I totally understand petrichoric's point of view - shared by many - I know these young men DO know the risks and they DO still join up. It is not for them to worry about whether the cause is right or wrong... that is for us to take up with our politicians... that these young people are willing to risk so much for me (whether I ask them to or not) is I think very humbling. As I said... the right and wrong of it should be taken up with the Government. And actually you wont find any of them asking for pity or for help... and they don't ever say 'oh why me?' either. Help for Heroes was started by an ex soldier in order to 'help themselves'... I don't believe this cause is any more worthy than any other... we can't all help everyone... we have to make a choice. Apologies for rambling... :-) and thank you Mandy - I KNOW that your donation is very much appreciated.