I can’t help but be hurt when I read of all the young men and women in our military services who are committing suicide. An April 26 story reported “Suicides increase among Reservists.” Isn’t this a much higher percentage than in non-military life? Isn’t it much higher than it was in years past, say, during the second World War?
I can only think the severe depression of these precious young people is because there is just no one to talk to, no one who cares enough to listen and no one who really understands their problems. And I can’t help but think that a whole cadre of chaplains might greatly stem this tide.
Our young men are not just “fighting machines.” There must be something good and courageous going on in their minds and hearts for them to be able to face the horrendous job we have given them.
Let’s encourage our military men and women in any way we can. And let’s add chaplains to be available to those who find life in our services more than they bargained for when they signed up. Let’s back them up with our prayers, too. It hurts to hear that so many of our young are ushering themselves into eternity.
