The Monrovia Public Library is offering a Creative Writing Workshop for Family and Friends of Veterans, Wednesday, Oct. 22, 6 p.m. at the Monrovia Public Library Community Room. Bring an object or picture that means something special to you in relation to the veteran in your life. Pen and paper will be provided. Workshop is open to adults and mature teens. Contact Rebecca Elder at 256-8268 for more information. The library also offers resources for vets, here ( http://goo.gl/MGux6w ).
Comment: Since this program is funded by Cal Humanities, with a goal "to increase public understanding for those who have served in the U.S. Military as well as how best we can support the process of reincorporating veterans into our community," it got me thinking. As a vet, what do I think vets would like? Well, a) A job. b) An occasional thank you. c) The government fulfilling its obligations to vets (See VA hospitals as an example of how not to do this.) d) An occasional free beer. And what wouldn't vets like? Unless he's laid up in the hospital, anything that smacks of, "Oh, you poor dear! Let me help you with that." Any other vets have thoughts?
- Brad Haugaard
It depends on the veteran. Some enter the service because they were challenged in life and its structure and benefits was worth the effort. Once they are out, the same challenges face them. Others, especially combat experienced vets, come away fundamentally altered and in need of assistance. Others get along quite well and transition back to civilian life completely, if not always smoothly. I agree that sometimes there seems to be an overabundance of attention to veterans causes. But, this is vastly better than the situation faced by my Viet Nam veteran predecessors.
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