I've been blessed in my career to work closely with the medical community and the military health system for the past 15 years as a physician/community health liaison.  During this time I met many Veterans when they were experiencing a health crisis in their life.  I spent much of my time listening to many of our warrior's stories while also trying to figure out their best plan of care.  I enjoyed their stories and was always touched by their bravery and loyalty to their mission but most of all it was their kindness that stayed with me.

Their faces would light up as they shared many of their stories and I could tell each story was very special to them.  It was as if they were sharing a priceless old photograph they kept tucked in their heart as they relish the best and perhaps also the worst time in their life.  They shared many memories of hospitality, cultural experiences and unforgettable brotherhood.  It was inspiring that they chose to share stories about kindness during a war where they were tortured, injured, lost a limb, and many were still coping with losing their best friend.  I've often wondered why with just one conversation it was as if we've known each other for a long time as we share stories about war, family, and everyday life.  Perhaps we have a God connection because quite often our conversations would lead to God and the bible.  

The Veterans Administration felt like my second home, I was there almost daily.  The VA waiting rooms sometimes felt like a family room, as we wait and watch cooking shows and take notes on how Rachel Ray makes her famous pasta dishes, share war stories, and wait for the doctor.  As I met more Veteran patients each day,  I discovered a huge need for them to have an outlet to express their stories.  It was in the Summer of 2016 when the seeds of my ministry began to sow in my mind, and the idea to start a healing arts ministry blossomed with each passing month.   I knew then, it was a call from God and His words from Isaiah 61:3 was going to be the heartbeat of Community Patriot Arts Connection and would soon be the next chapter of my life.

Each day soldiers and first responders battle for righteousness.  They protect and save lives and unfortunately many come home with both physical and emotional pain.  Our team offers Patriots a creative outlet to help them cope with stress and heal the wounds and PTSD inflicted by war.  Our goal is to help our Veterans and First Responders share their stories and express themselves through creativity.  I believe the process of expressing our truth and creating something meaningful to us and beautiful has a way of connecting us with our Creator.  It brings us into our Father's presence.  We are made in God's image and we are designed to create just like Him.  Let's be reminded that Our Father is a mighty healer who gave us each a special talent and gift.  We somehow discover the peace and joy we long for when we get to experience our natural design to create.  I've seen the amazing transformation of Veterans during our workshops -- their mood and countenance turn form gloom to joy once they start to connect and create!  They leave excited and happy with their spirits soaring and so motivated to create more!   

Social interaction is also healing and we encourage Veterans and our youth to create and connect during our workshops.  Reach for a paintbrush instead of your computer, play and paint a beautiful scene or plant a garden with us.  Come to our workshops and write a song and release your emotions through writing or express yourself with dance movements that can help bring healing to your soul.

Many of us have survived the cruelty of war, betrayals and the horror of life, and found healing when we use our God-given gifts.  We also encourage our Veterans  to cultivate gifts of grace. We know it's difficult to forgive yourself and others when you have been betrayed over and over again. We encourage you to try and try again. Don't give up. Go to Jesus first and read the bible and discover how grace can renew your life and how you can begin to live with more peace.  Pray and find a godly friend if you need to talk.  Or write a letter to Jesus. Connect with your Creator, Our Father in Heaven and you will see how the light of Jesus can begin to take over the dark places of your mind and heart.  Have faith and trust that soon you will begin a journey to your purpose with lasting joy, peace and better health.