This…was an experience well worth witnessing.  As Joe speaks about the healing process, these dialogues make it apparent to anyone who comes.

To be a civilian means I don’t get to look through this door very often.  It’s always a privilege when I do.  These are a wonderful opportunity for family and friends to listen, and to participate.  The treasure in these events is the very fact that Joe works to include the voice of spouses, even the children.  Last Saturday was informal, intimate… a comfortable setting.

There were difficult things to hear.  There were moments of great laughter.  The honesty shared by the attendees felt heavy, arresting, illuminating, and courageous.  When asked the question, “which is harder, adjusting to war, or adjusting to coming home?” the veterans unanimously chuckled and said, “adjusting to home.”

What more can be said to emphasize the value of all those at home to engage in and be a part of the healing process for their loved ones?

The Almagre Review thanks all our veterans for their service, and for the honor of attending the Military Veteran’s Community Dialogue.

~John Lewis,
Artist/Editor