Project Sanctuary
~through the eyes of a volunteer
March 9, 2010
Over the years, I have been honored by the ability to work with military families. In doing so, it has become increasingly obvious what family means to military members. Groups of military families live in close proximity to each other, creating a subculture atmosphere. Families within each group build great trust and respect for each other and use this like a security net during times of deployment or need. The type of individuals that you meet in the military are extremely disciplined, self sacrificing and generous. That is why I believe that they are able to do what they do.
Now think just for a minute of that type of commitment, the magnitude of giving from one individual to many others. Can you imagine the love and commitment that these military men and women feel for their own families if that is what they feel for our country? They are willing to sacrifice their lives for America; think of what they would do for a spouse or child! Imagine how distraught they might feel to not be able to be the family member they once were or to “be there” for their family and complete normal everyday duties?
All too often, a soldier is not capable of being a “normal” member of the family immediately upon returning home from service. Why is this? It is my belief that many men and women who return to the arms of their loving families are not able to function as the family member they were previously because they are not the same person. The soldier has lived an entirely different life, seen horrific things, completed unspeakable duties, and has established bonds with other people that they may never see again. That is a lot of anxiety, trauma, loss and grief to deal with in addition to the immediate needs that are manifesting and waiting at home with anxious family members. It may be not possible for anyone to successfully resume normal living without intervention. It is not that the soldiers and families want discord, quite the opposite, they have had plenty of that! What they really want is to “get back to normal” or at the very least be able to quickly modify and adjust their lives in a positive way.
This is why the efforts of Project Sanctuary are so important and necessary to military families. It allows the family unit as a whole to start over; it allows families to get back to the basics rather than expecting life to positively progress just because a person believes it should. (In guidance and development they refer to this as “shouldering on yourself,” just not a good idea!) Project Sanctuary offers a safe haven for the entire family in order to reconnect through healthy choices, healthy camaraderie, support and play.
It is not as punishment that the families’ cabins are not equipped with the distractions of modern technology. The families are meant to turn to each other, talking and spending valuable time together. No duties or commitments, just good ole' bonding and re-bonding. It is amazing to watch families reconnect by playing games, working together, laughing, and building new memories. No one expects that the soldier’s negative experiences or trauma will be immediately or permanently erased, but it sure is a happy beginning. Through professional support as well as great activities, Project Sanctuary families are reconnected with positive experiences and some priceless pictures to remember everything.
Project Sanctuary is providing a new foundation to the entire family unit. It is no easy task, but they sure do make it look easy and fun! I am fortunate to be involved in this amazing and rewarding non-profit organization. It is my hope that others will also recognize the tremendous positive impact that Project Sanctuary provides so that many more families who want the chance to reconnect after deployment are able to do so.
How much does your family mean to you?
Imagine if you weren’t able to “be there” for them?
Amazingly, there is hope, thank you Project Sanctuary for the assistance, support and understanding that your organization provides to all military men and women!
