Victory in Europe Day

In Europe today, May 8th, we celebrate 80 years since the end of WWII. Many battles were fought in that war; many battles were also fought long after the conflict had ended. These were the battles in the hearts and minds of those who had ‘survived’ and families whose loved ones had fallen. 

A solemn tribute at a cemetery dedicated to Victory in Europe Day, adorned with vibrant red poppies and flags, serving as a poignant reminder to never forget the sacrifice and victory of that historic day.

Years after my deployments to the Middle East, I was fighting battles, too. The battlefield, though, was my mind. Trying to find relieve, I looked in all the wrong places. I wanted some brief respite from the narrative playing inside my head every single day. The thoughts I rehearsed were like Scott Savage says, “taking a long car journey with only one CD playing in your car on repeat.” The lyrics of the track playing in my head were comprised of grief, loneliness, isolation, guilt, and lack of peace. 

In the gospel account of Matthew in the Bible, Jesus is recorded making an offer to those who are struggling with life and its burdens. These are the words of His offer: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28). Close to 20 years ago, my son navigated me to this Jesus. I took Him up on this offer of rest for my soul.

When we seek help in the right places, we find rest. We receive guidance and empowerment to function as we were created to. This has been my life experience.

As we remember today all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice in WWII, and to those who are still paying it, we honor those gave their all that other generations may have freedom. Let us use that freedom wisely. And if we need help, let’s seek it in the right places. 

Slainte

John Corcoran.