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I thoroughly enjoy working with people. I often request people to focus on good things in their lives and how they experience gratitude. Here are a few of their stories: A young couple talked about the disaster of losing his job. They reported they had only been married a few years and wanted to start a family. They fell into financially challenging times, and like so many who lost their livelihood, it was easy to fall into despair. With their families and church families' support, they were encouraged to look to the future with gratitude. By creating a gratitude journal, they kept their spirits high. Gratitude became their lifeline. They clung to small blessings, their supportive community, and each other, and gratitude taught them resilience when they needed it the most. Another young couple reported that intentional gratitude brought them closer. "We make it a point to express appreciation daily. It's not just the grand gestures but the mundane—like thanking each other for chores or simply saying 'I love you.' It's strengthened our bond in ways we couldn't imagine." When I talked to a veteran about gratitude, he reported that he has continued to struggle with his past war experiences. He said that "Gratitude Therapy" helped him shift from the pains of the past to the generosities of the present. His gratitude journal helped him change his focus from his military experience to the simple joys of each day. He reported that the old memories are still present, but gratitude helps him find peace amidst the chaos. When asking an older gentleman about gratitude, he reported that he has experienced many facets of life. He has been given more than he deserves, not just material gifts. He has also experienced loss beyond belief. Now in his 80s, he reports that gratitude is his lifelong companion. He said it's not about what I have but my perspective. Gratitude brings me contentment and wisdom, allowing me to savor life's simple pleasures. 💡 Gratitude is the guiding light through life's ebbs and flows that profoundly influences my spirit. How about you? What would others say about how you embrace gratitude at home and work? Watch for the blind spots. ✍ Yo! I've created a simple Gratitude Journal printable page for you to download, duplicate, and begin your daily gratitude experience. Click here to download. #blindspots #mindsetmatters #bettereveryday #mindset #bekind #growthmindset #emotionalmaturity #counseling #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #journaling #gratitude #gratitudejournal #gratitudeattitude #journalinspiration #communication #betterme #mindsetiseverything #toastmasters #businesscoaching #successcoach #dailyinspiration

Have you ever thought you communicated effectively, only to find out later there were issues with tone, content, or volume? I know we have discussed this in a previous post, but it bears repeating. Recording conversations, especially when emotions run high, can offer valuable insights. This is why I encourage it. What you say?! Recordings are not ethical and are illegal in some settings. Yes, but I set boundaries that only allow recordings when all parties are aware. It is sneaky, underhanded, malicious, and damaging to effective communications to record in secret. Therefore, recordings must be disclosed. I often witness how what is said may be heard differently than intended, such as being listened to as harsh, attacking, or defensive. “The most important thing in communication is to hear what is not being said.” Peter Drucker As the speaker, I do not hear my voice as others may hear it. I recommend using recordings so that each person may hear the voice they haven't heard before, which is their own. Listening to the recording can provide effective feedback that goes unnoticed. As speakers, we frequently do not experience our own voices in the same way that others do. Recordings enable everyone to hear themselves objectively, providing comments that could otherwise be missed. The recording is not meant to gather information on others; it's a tool for self-assessment. Once everyone has listened to their own voice, the recordings must be deleted. When I talk about this, I hear, "Do you think I would say it or say it that way if I knew it was going to be recorded?" [Blind Spot!] This is a perfect realization of how obvious it is that recordings may show a side of us that we don't want to be revealed to ourselves or others. When presented in this manner, this powerful tool makes sense. However, it can be difficult to implement. It's not enough just to acknowledge its effectiveness, success comes from actually making the recordings. How about you? Would knowing you were recorded change how you communicate? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please comment, like and share. 🎅🎁 Christmas is coming! Get them a copy of Blind Spots in Relationships and start a conversation this holiday season! #blindspots #selfimprovement #bekind #humanitymatters #mindsetmatters #emotions #emotionalmaturity #perspectivematters #leadershipcoaching #leadership #bettereveryday #betterme #conversationsthatmatter #recordings #RecordingConversations #paytiforward #communicationiskey #communicationtips #conversationpractice #wednesdayvibes #wednesdaywisdom #wednesdaymotivation #peterdrucker

Many years ago, a good friend of mine, JD, from our church was having kidney failure and had to go to dialysis three times a week. His wife would get up early and take him at 3:30 am. Several of us from the church would pick him up at about 7:30. He wanted to go to breakfast before going home. JD was usually in a grumpy mood after dialysis and rightfully so. Usually, when I would take him to breakfast, he would complain about where we went, how bad the breakfast was, or how it could have been better. His complaints would occur week after week as I picked him up usually on Wednesdays. If I was ever late, I was in trouble, which I understood. I heard how hard it was to wait and how he didn't know if I would be there. It was before cell phones. I would arrive early, sitting in the waiting room with dialysis patients. I began to meet many of them. I started to hear their stories: "I can't empty my dishwasher anymore, or I can’t reach the cabinets to put my dishes away, I can't vacuum anymore, I can't sweep, I hate it when the wind blows, and my trash cans go down the street, I usually have to get someone to go get them for me." This was the beginning of a significant shift for me. I wouldn't say I liked to put the dishes away. I didn't want to empty the dishwasher, vacuum, sweep, or chase the trash cans. As I sat there and listened to the stories, I began to look at my hands and feet. I began to think about how equipped I am and what a privilege it is to have health, strength, and ability. At that moment, I shifted from “I have-to to I get-to.” “I have to is a struggle. I get to is a privilege.” I get to empty the dishwasher, sweep, and chase the trash cans because I have a healthy body. I have two good hands and feet. If I think of it as a gift that I get to do something, life becomes easier. It is my choice to be involved and engaged in life. Today, regardless of how much I do not want to do a chore, I remember that “I get to.” What a privilege! What about you? Is life a have-to or a get-to? Watch for the blind spots. Thanks for your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships What I don't know I don't Know about Myself on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Books a Million and more. Deep dive into the hidden behaviors that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #mondaymood #mondaythoughts #mondaymotivations #bettereveryday #blindspots #toastmasters #mentor #emotionalintelligence #successcoach #JoinTheRide #lifeisagift #seniorliving #gettingolder #rememberthis #successmindset #counseling #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #relationshipadvice #havetovsgetto #relationshipcoach

Not long ago, I was talking to an elderly couple. I laughed and cried when I spoke to this couple who told me, "When we got married, we had nothing, and today we still have most of it." It speaks volumes about their journey, highlighting contentment, simplicity, and possibly a lack of material possessions, yet a wealth of something more profound. This statement describes a journey marked by resilience and shared priorities. It signifies a bond that has weathered life's storms. Building memories of love and companionship was more important than accumulating material wealth. The statement spoke to their ability to find joy and fulfillment in the simple things of their life together. Worldly pressures speak to the pursuit of material success. This couple reminds me that true wealth lies beyond what money can buy. It's about the strength of a partnership, the depth of connection, and the resilience to navigate life's challenges together. This couple might have accumulated only a few material possessions over the years. However, what they have retained is far more valuable—the essence of their journey, the love that has sustained them, and the experiences that have shaped their bond. Another thing that they disclosed was that their journey began with a biblical foundation then they persistently grew their faith and love of the Lord. This reinforces that I regularly witness couples who pray, and worship together have wealth richer than any material possessions. They might still have most of what they started with, but what truly matters—love, companionship, and shared experiences—has only grown richer with time. Their story inspires me, reminding me that the true treasures in life are not measured by the size of our bank accounts or the possessions we accrue but by a solid shared faith, a deep connection, and the richness of experiences where beautiful memories are accumulated. Their story reminds me that the most precious things in life are often the most basic, straightforward, and enduring. How about you? What are your treasures in life? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #bettereveryday #blindspots #communication #betterme #clearlakeareachamber #rich #wealth #truelove #truelovestory #resilience #bible #worship #sharedfaith #relationalintelligence #marriage #marriedlife #emotionalintelligence #counseling #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #toastmasters #relationshipcoach #jointheride #leadershipcoaching

In the past, I have let my circumstances dictate my mood, future, education, finances, employment, etc. Sometimes, circumstances seem so overwhelming that I am frozen in time or so reactionary that I make choices abruptly without adequate research. "Circumstances don't make the man; they only reveal him to himself." Epictetus Epictetus, the Greek philosopher, advocated for the mastery of one's mind in the face of external events. He emphasized the power of perception and choice, asserting that our responses to situations define our character. According to him, challenges, and adversities function as mirrors, reflecting our genuine selves. When confronted with trials, we either embrace resilience or succumb to despair—a testament to our inner nature. Today, I want to see my circumstances as mere occurrences. I want my reactions to them to sculpt my destiny positively. I want my challenges to unveil my strengths and weaknesses, and I want to see that circumstances serve as catalysts for growth, offering a glimpse into my potential. My willingness to be authentic and acknowledge my emotions and vulnerabilities becomes the cornerstone for growth when facing these challenging dilemmas. Who I am is not shaped by external factors but rather by how I navigate life's complexities. Adversity acts as a litmus test, exposing my core values, beliefs, and resilience. If I face financial turmoil, I can crumble under despair or channel my inner resolve, seeking opportunities amidst chaos. The circumstances remain the same, yet my responses unveil my true character. While these dilemmas may test me, my response, resilience, authenticity, and willingness to grow will ultimately define who I will be. Embracing this philosophy empowers me to navigate life's uncertainties with grace, knowing that within every challenge lies an opportunity for self-discovery. Viktor Frankl says, "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves." How about you? Do you allow your dilemmas to dictate who you are and how you show up, or do you use circumstances to sculpt your destiny? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #blindspots #selfimprovement #toastmasters #toastmastersinternational #bekind #humanitymatters #mindsetmatters #emotionalmaturity #perspectivematters #leadershipcoaching #leadership #bettereveryday #betterme #sculpting #mydilemma #epictetus #circumstances #circumstancesdontmatter #wednesdayvibes #wednesdaywisdom #wednesdaymotivation

When I met Richard, he was known for his generosity and easygoing nature, which drew people to him. Friends, friends of friends, acquaintances—all found solace in his advice and willingness to help. Each problem he solved for them was like taking their monkey off their back and putting it on a leash. It felt helpful to assist, and he was always ready to stay connected, just in case. As time passed, others saw his ability to take on their problems. Bob was trying to buy a car, and Jon shared his financial woes. Eager to assist, Richard found himself with two monkeys on a leash. But as the cycle continued, he held so many monkeys on a leash that they tangled and tripped him as he moved down life's highway. He had a huge trench coat, and the monkeys enjoyed riding inside his coat rather than being on a leash. His coat of problems grew. What once started as a helpful gesture soon became a weight too heavy to bear alone. Each problem he accepted added to the collection of monkeys in his coat—unpaid bills, broken hearts, shattered dreams. Once a vessel of aid, the coat became an unbearable burden. It sagged with the weight of others' troubles, radiating a putrid stench that mirrored the weight of their sorrows. Despite the overwhelming load, Richard never turned away from anyone seeking help. People praised his resilience, unaware of the strain he carried. But even the most caring heart has its limits. Richard's life became like his coat of stinking monkeys. As he sought assistance for his miserable condition, he finally began to see his bulging coat, its shape distorted by the monkeys within. With a heavy heart, he realized he couldn't take on more. The stench of accumulated burdens became unbearable, suffocating his peace of mind. Contrary to his original thoughts, “They can't do this without me”; he began to release the monkeys individually. Each monkey scampered away into the night, carrying the burden it represented. As they departed, the coat lightened until it hung limp, relieved of the weight it once bore. Richard's shoulders began to feel lighter, understanding that while helping others was noble, carrying everyone's burdens wasn't sustainable. It was a lesson that to help others, he needed to protect his well-being first, then allow them to become independent. Can this be considered as “enabling?" How about you? Are you carrying other people's stinking monkeys? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #brenebrown #blindspots #selfimprovement #toastmasters #toastmastersinternational #bekind #vulnerability #selfish #humanitymatters #monkeyonyourback #monkeyonmyback #mindsetmatters #emotionalmaturity #perspectivematters #leadershipcoaching #leadership #wednesdayvibes #wednesdaywisdom #wednesdaymotivation #bettereveryday #betterme

As all relationships go, Ralph and Robin find themselves in the slump of catching each other doing things wrong or majoring on each other's minuses. They have lost the luster of love and started to engage in fault-finding. It has become a dance of criticism, where every misstep is magnified, and every flaw is scrutinized. Suppose Robin says that she does not receive enough communication, such as text messages, phone calls, or talking when he comes from work. In this case, she brings it to his attention in a manner that feels like complaining. Ralph will likely defend his actions or, even worse, attack back by pointing out her indiscretions or faults. Bingo! The discussion will continue with attack and defend, point, and blame. Now the argument may shift to pointing out how Robin is habitually late. This becomes the next battleground as one accuses the other of always being late, an apparent sign of disrespect for the other's time. Once this foundation is established in their relationship, communication becomes a point of contention, as one feels that the other does not effectively express themselves. Complaining or nagging is a sign of not feeling heard. It is repeating the same thing which does not produce any change. Complaints beget complaints. Talking to them about being their own cop and policing their actions when they get out of line or violate the law of relationships can be foreign to them. Relationships have a profound beauty when individuals choose not to play the role of the other's cop. Instead of policing each other's actions, they focus on self-improvement. The relationships blossoms when both partners take responsibility for their actions and strive to be the best version of themselves. Being able to listen, observe, and move out of the way of others can be endearing. To admit, rather than rationalize, minimize, or justify can be freeing for both parties. I call this “self-policing.” It is when Ralph and Robin look inward and identify areas for personal growth without blaming. This creates an attractive dynamic where individuals continually evolve for the relationship and their emotional well-being. How about you? Are you being the other's cop or are you self-policing? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #bettereveryday #blindspots #communication #betterme #clearlakeareachamber #police #PoliceYourself #relationalintelligence #emotionalintelligence #counseling #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #toastmasters #relationshipcoach #jointheride #leadershipcoaching

I am often clouded by the fog of my concerns and desires. It is easy for me to succumb to the pitfalls of selfishness, judgmental attitudes, and self-righteousness. I need things to be like I want them. I want others to do things like I would do them. After all, that makes me feel more at ease and comfortable. How can I break free of these chains of nearsightedness? After all, I have the best ideas and ways of doing things. I know shortcuts that improve production and efficiency. What a challenging situation or life I create for myself and others when I think and act this way. I become more interested in convincing others to do it my way and alienate them from me. Yes, I push them away in my attempt (poor as it may be) to make life better for them. When I give up my consideration of others, empathy, and connection slip away. Most don't think the way I do, nor do they want to. Brene Brown's teachings remind me that true strength lies in my ability to embrace vulnerability and cultivate compassion, fostering connections that transcend my self-centered perspectives. Jim Rohn encourages a shift in focus from self-centeredness to contribution. He asserts that true fulfillment comes not from what we accumulate for ourselves but from the value we add to the lives of others. Rohn's philosophy challenges the notion of self-importance, redirecting our attention toward our broader impact on the world around us. Within my clamor of selfish desires and self-righteous convictions, dawns the realization that “I'm just not that important.” This humble acknowledgment does not diminish my worth or potential impact but releases me from self-centeredness. "I'm just not that important" becomes a liberating refrain. It invites me to step out of the shadows of self-centeredness and into shared humanity. My significance is not found in self-importance but in the compassionate connections and positive contributions I make in the lives of others. Are you making yourself too important? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #brenebrown #jimrohn #blindspots #selfimprovement #toastmasters #toastmastersinternational #bekind #vulnerability #selfish #humanitymatters #mindsetmatters #emotionalmaturity #perspectivematters #leadershipcoaching #leadership #wednesdayvibes #wednesdaywisdom #wednesdaymotivation #bettereveryday #betterme

When I say the Lord's Prayer or the Pledge of Allegiance, I test my memory rather than committing to the words that call me into action. How would I show up differently if I slowed down, said the words like I mean them, and committed to what I am saying? I get into routine mode and say the words so quickly they have little meaning or cause little or nothing to change. I live in a beautiful nation rich in opportunities, yet I take them for granted. When I am reminded of the devastation of war, as seen in the news today, I feel so blessed to have particular routines I can enjoy. Living on the Gulf Coast, we occasionally lose power and even the privilege of running water. It is inconvenient, but we usually know the restoral time, so I get to fuss for a little while, feeling fully justified. When I see refugees giving up all their routines of home and family, I can't imagine what it would be like without electricity, water, and food for my family. What a helpless, hopeless feeling that would be. I prefer (or have a burning desire) to be in control. If I couldn't ever turn on the lights or water or return to my home, I can't imagine what that would be like. I am so blessed with creature comforts that I can so easily take them for granted, just as I do the Lord's prayer and the pledge. Being intentional and strategic about the seemingly ordinary aspects of my life, whether in prayer, patriotic affirmations, or any other routine, enriches my experiences and renews my appreciation for all of my blessings. Ultimately, the choice to slow down and approach life intentionally is a powerful motivation to rediscover the depth and beauty woven into the fabric of my daily existence. I take for granted what others don’t get to have or enjoy. Too many times, I go to sleep at the wheel. How about you? Are you snared by routine and failing to smell the roses? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #mondaymood #mondaythoughts #mondaymotivations #bettereveryday #blindspots #toastmasters #mentor #emotionalintelligence #successcoach #successmindset #counseling #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #relationshipadvice #routine #routinemode #repetition #stopandsmelltheroses #payitforward #relationshipcoach #jointheride

Veterans who wear hats or other memorabilia to distinguish themselves do so because they desire to be recognized for their service. I have the opportunity to speak with many of them. I understand some have mixed feelings when they hear "Thank you for your service." They may appreciate the acknowledgment and the recognition of their sacrifices, or the phrase can sometimes feel trite, almost cliché, and fail to capture the depth of their experiences and the challenges they've faced. "Thank you for your service" often highlights the disconnect between civilians and veterans. Civilians do not have a complete understanding of the complexities of military life. Even service members have a wide range of experiences, including deployment, from combat to non-combat roles and the difficulties they face when transitioning back to a civilian life. Veterans often feel as if they are being recognized without their civilian counterparts completely comprehending what they have gone through. It's crucial to understand that most people who say "thank you for your service" are sincere in their gratitude for the sacrifices made by veterans. Though sometimes the words don't fully express how they feel, they nonetheless mean to be respectful and appreciative. Veterans often appreciate authentic conversations that allow them to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Instead of just saying, "Thank you for your service," asking curious questions can be engaging and meaningful. Questions like: When did you serve? Where did you serve? How long did you serve? These questions are highly engaging and provide much more than just gratitude. Providing a listening ear holds great significance. "Thank you for your service" is a well-intentioned expression of gratitude and most used when you encounter veterans. When time does not permit engaging in conversation, a sincere "Thank you for your service" is more than adequate. Tomorrow is Veterans' Day. I pray you have been enlightened by this week's posts. Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #fridayvibes #friday #fridaymotivation #bettereveryday #blindspots #communication #betterme #clearlakeareachamber #successcoach #successmindset #counseling #veteran #VeteransFamilies #veteransupport #VeteransDay #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #toastmasters #relationshipcoach #jointheride #veterans #leadershipcoaching

I recall that just before I was deployed in August of 1966, I was on a 30-day leave. I had orders to deploy, but I had not shared them with Mom and Dad. I wanted to protect them as long as possible. About a week before I was to deploy, I found an opportunity to tell my dad. I recall the dreadful look on his face and the helplessness in his voice. I remember him distinctively saying, "Jerry, we don't want no heroes; we just want you back." Wow, those words rang in my ears for the next 13 months. Then, many years after my return, during an intimate conversation, he shared, "I cried every night you were gone." This was as difficult as it was honest for this tough old man to admit. Mom and Dad were vigilant in staying abreast of the war events through news articles and television news. The experience of having a veteran return from war can be rewarding and challenging for family and friends. It's essential to understand that each situation is unique, and the impact on loved ones can vary significantly depending on the veteran's experiences and the support systems in place. The return of a veteran often brings a sense of relief and joy to family and friends. Knowing that their loved one has returned safely from a potentially dangerous situation can be a cause for celebration. While the reunion is filled with joy and happiness, it can also be challenging as everyone adjusts to a new normal. Both veterans and their families have changed during this time. Some veterans may experience physical or mental health challenges due to their exposures. Some may suffer from imposture syndrome. This can be difficult for family and friends to understand. When veterans return, family and friends might feel a sense of loss, because the returning military men and women they knew before deployment may be different upon their return. Our culture focuses on the returning veteran. Please don't forget their families. Helping veteran families recover from these experiences can be a Godsend. Conversing with these families can be very rewarding for them and you. Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #mondaymood #mondaythoughts #mondaymorning #bettereveryday #blindspots #toastmasters #mentor #mentorship #emotionalintelligence #mentalhealth #veteran #VeteransFamilies #suicide #veteransupport #VeteransDay #counseling #purpose #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #anxiety #ptsd #ptsdawareness #DepressionAndAnxietyAwareness #JoinTheRide

I remember it was January 1966. I left for San Diego, going to boot camp. I was full of patriotism, duty, and honor. "I, Jerry Clark, do solemnly swear that I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same; and that I will obey the orders of the President of the United States and the orders of the officers appointed over me, according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So help me God." What a commitment. I was so proud to have volunteered to serve my country. Entering the military was a journey that required determination, intention, and unwavering dedication. I was trained in physical fitness and military readiness. In addition to the physical and mental aspects, military life requires a solid allegiance to honor, and integrity. We were expected to adhere to a strict code of conduct and embrace core values such as loyalty, duty, respect, selfless service, honor, integrity, and personal courage. Going into the military is a transformative process marked by fidelity, sacrifice, and resolution. It's a journey that molds individuals into capable, resilient, and honorable defenders of our country. The training we received is second to none, and the ability to perform is amazing. The teaching and molding are so good that it becomes challenging to forget what we learned when we return to civilian life. Not all veterans have a difficult time transitioning into civilian life, yet there are ones who do struggle for years. The Veterans Administration reports that 18 to 21 veterans commit suicide every day, yes, every day. We have a veteran’s group that meets every Thursday and has for the past almost 11 years. It is a place where veterans can come and tell their stories and feel supported by ones who understand and appreciate their experiences. Too many veterans today suffer from homelessness, relationships, legal issues, drugs and alcohol, employment issues, transitioning through the VA maze for benefits, and many other difficult circumstances. It is so easy to celebrate sports and entertainment magnates and overlook the ones who signed up to give all they had for the freedom of our nation. Do you remember that freedom isn't free? Watch for the blind spots. I appreciate your feedback, please like, share or comment. Get your copy of Blind Spots in Relationships. Discover the hidden behavior that can be holding you back from the relationships you desire. #mondaymood #mondaythoughts #mondaymorning #bettereveryday #blindspots #toastmasters #mentor #mentorship #emotionalintelligence #mentalhealth #veteran #veteranshelpingveterans #suicide #veteransupport #VeteransDay #counseling #purpose #selfimprovement #mindsetmatters #bekind #anxiety #ptsd #ptsdawareness #DepressionAndAnxietyAwareness #jointheride