October 15, 2001
FAMILY MATTERS:
Grandfather's experiences valuable now
___ I am a veteran of World War II. Because of the recent terrorist acts, my children and grandchildren are asking me what it was like to experience the devastation of World War II. How do I answer them?
MARY STEPHENS
Vice President
Buckner Retirement Services, Dallas
___Dealing with the emotional aftermath of Sept. 11 is difficult for people of all ages, even if they did not personally experience any loss of a loved one or friend.
___Small children often seek reassurance that their lives will continue as normal. Teenagers may be concerned that they might be called to serve their country as this effort against terrorism continues.
___Questions about your experience in World War II could be your family's way of understanding someone can go through terrible atrocities yet continue on with life afterward.
___Today, heroes are praised for their efforts in New York, Washington and rural Pennsylvania. Your experience with World War II and the fact you served your country are evidence to your family that you were a true patriot.
___Helping them understand why you were willing to serve may be more important than the actual duties you performed. If they understand that you, too, struggled with the notion of war, they will know their questions are normal.
___Tell them about the friendships you made through days of combat, the day-to-day life you experienced and how you came to understand the grave nature of war. The importance of letters from home as well as the love and support of your family also should be emphasized.
___For your grandchildren, direct your answers depending upon their age. Seek guidance from reputable, qualified sources to determine how to share these experiences appropriately.
___Your children, who are older, may need you to listen to them as they grapple with the issue of the morality of war. They may be seeking an understanding of war and retaliation insofar as Christ's admonition to forgive our enemies. The extreme religious views of those who perpetrated these acts also may be troublesome to them.
___Above all else, it is important to emphasize prayer and reliance on Christ to hold us in the palm of his hand. Pray with them and ask God to guide our nation's leaders. Pray for comfort for those who lost loved ones.
___Our faith will indeed see us through.
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