We have all had this experience. A brief stop at an intersection in any major U.S. city. A bedraggled man sits on the curb with a cardboard sign that simply says: Veteran. Perhaps you have felt pity. Perhaps judgment. Regardless, the question comes to mind: How does that happen?
On Tuesday morning at the Men of Faith breakfast, those in attendance learned just exactly how that scenario can happen. Michael Carson was a typical west Texas farm boy who learned about God’s love as a child, became accustomed to hard work and accountability, then volunteered for the Army National Guard with mixed adolescent motivations. The 9-11 attack happened the same day, and in a relatively short time Carson was thrown into combat situations that are hard to imagine much less describe.
He came home to achieve – by all outward appearances – a life of success, but inside he was boiling. Two of his combat brothers took their lives. Survivor’s guilt in the throes of full-blown PTSD, the flashbacks and nightmares were relentless. The only thing that numbed the pain was alcohol in constant growing consumption. Then he required other drugs as well. DWIs, jail, courtrooms, and unemployment followed. Then, justifiably, divorce and separation from all those who have loved him.
