For Those Hurting
Bo Bergstrom ??
Entrepreneur who loves 0 to 1, AI and Web3 | Writer?? | Veteran | Specialize in AI, Incubation, Prototyping, and New Venture Initiatives
It’s been hard to read through the news, social media and even LinkedIn lately.??The images coming out of Afghanistan are heartbreaking.?As many pointed out, they are eerily similar to the fall of Saigon in 1975.??There’s a lot to unpack about this situation, both how we got here and why we’re leaving in such disarray. but this post is not going to do that.?Instead, this post simply carries a message to those who fought there, watched brothers in arms die there, left behind good people who helped us, and are now hurting as they watch it all crumble
It feels like it was all a waste. This isn't me guessing how you feel or trying to put myself in your shoes, that’s exactly how I felt as ISIS destroyed so much of Iraq.?It’s a supremely frustrating feeling to watch so much work - quite literally years of your life and actual blood and lives of friends - result in no actual change to the situation on the ground.?It hurts.?It pisses you off.?It’s just... yeah. Words fail here.
I don’t think it was a waste, though. I think there’s lasting change that will come of this.?Some of it is negative, but also change that is undoubtedly positive.
For one, you are not the same individual who stepped into Afghanistan.?You’re smarter, tougher and better-equipped for whatever life throws at you because of your experiences in-country.?On top of all that, you built friendships there that will quite literally last the rest of your life.?Granted, you probably don’t call them or talk with them as often as you should - I know I don’t - they are still there for you to talk with when you need them.?Please reach out to them if now is one of those times.
The country itself is not the same as when you arrived.?There is an entire generation that tasted both freedom and democracy.?While they may not stand up against the Tailban overtly, there are millions of men and women who will teach their children different lessons; some because they knew or met you personally and others because your efforts positively impacted their community in some way.??
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Lastly, because of your efforts you return to a different country.??A country that will be less-likely to get into a similar situation in the future.?A country that has recent war veterans in Congress who have a different perspective about what causes are worth spilling American blood on foreign soil.?A country where individuals like yourself are more likely to contact their representatives and let them know this could have been done better.?A country that will, I have no doubt, contain even more veteran representation in the years ahead as more of us stand up and say, “Not again.?Not on my watch.”
In closing, I know watching what’s happening hurts.?I know it pisses you off.?I also know you’re not alone.?You may feel alone, but you are not alone.?You have an entire country who appreciates your service and is, quite literally, there if you need them.??
In case it's helpful, here’s a list of veteran resources courtesy of the VA:
The most constructive response I have seen to the mess Washington made. Well said.
Vice President and General Manager - CivicPlus
3 年Thank you, Bo.
Building a 10-year overnight success
3 年This is undoubtedly the most important read I've had of recent. Love you brother!
District Manager (1st Line) - Integrated Specialty Sales at Amgen
3 年Www.Warriorsforfreedom.org
Award-Winning Defense and Aerospace Leader Driving Excellence in Global Operations ?? Developer of High Performance Teams ?? Expert in Aviation Operations, Strategy, and Policy ?? Decorated Combat Veteran ??
3 年Thank you