Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts

Wednesday, June 23, 2021

why I always do the videos from my garage

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
June 23, 2021

(This is for the new PTSD Patrol site to explain things the new readers may not know. If you already know all this, then please just enjoy The Beatles video)

My name is Kathie Costos. For decades I was known as Namguardianangel. I couldn't afford the website anymore, so I had to let it go. In 2007 I started Wounded Times and in 2017 PTSD Patrol began as a way to change the conversation from doom and gloom to hope and healing.

You may wonder why I always do the videos from my garage. That is because that is where my vehicle rests. We know so much more about the vehicles we drive, than the one we live in. This is a way to explain it.


(Today's video is a long one to explain it to people who discover this on the new site. You may learn something too.)


The only thing I didn't cover in the video was why I use music. It changes our moods. It puts words to what we feel but cannot communicate. The other reason is, it reminds us that other people felt the same way too or they wouldn't have been able to write the lyrics. Another reason is, I never drive without the radio on!

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!

#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

HELP
The Beatles

(Help!) I need somebody
(Help!) Not just anybody
(Help!) You know I need someone
(Help!)

When I was younger so much younger than today
I never needed anybody's help in any way
But now these days are gone, I'm not so self assured
Now I find I've changed my mind and opened up the doors

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being 'round
Help me get my feet back on the ground
Won't you please, please help me?

And now my life has changed in oh so many ways
My independence seems to vanish in the haze
But every now and then I feel so insecure
I know that I just need you like I've never done before

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being 'round
Help me get my feet back on the ground
Won't you please, please help me?

When I was younger, so much younger than today
I never needed anybody's help in any way
But now these days are gone, I'm not so self assured
Now I find I've changed my mind and opened up the doors

Help me if you can, I'm feeling down
And I do appreciate you being 'round
Help me get my feet back on the ground
Won't you please, please help me?
Help me? Help me? Ooh

Genius.com

Sunday, May 23, 2021

Come soak this dry heart with healing rain

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
May 23, 2021

A drug addict, a drunk and a homeless man were alone, lost and lonely. Then someone came to invite them to get soaked in the rain. That was probably the only invitation they had in years. The featured video today is Michael Smith, Healing Rain. I bet you thought that was going to be a joke.

Because the pandemic hit only a few months after we moved to New Hampshire, we didn't know too many people. It was really hard being isolated and not knowing our way around. The blessing was, our daughter was already here, which is why we moved. Some friends we had many years lived fairly close and they made it easier, making sure we got out of the house and spent time with them.

We were lucky but too many were not. When you are lonely, your mind takes over, and most of the time, not in a good way. Sad and lonely, you can end up telling yourself that no one wants you around. You look back at your life and all the times you felt like an outcast become stronger than the memories of when you felt as if you belonged somewhere. You may know you need help, but sooner or later you end up telling yourself you are not worth helping.

Then someone comes along to let you know you are worth their time and they offer you hope.

Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he hath redeemed from the hand of the enemy

The enemy is no longer what caused PTSD, but it is PTSD trying to take over the rest of your life. When you have it, you feel like an outcast. Lost, hopeless and not worth helping, you give up on others because you gave up on yourself. The thing is, the others who have healed, know exactly what that feels like for you, because they went through it too. 

I was with Point Man International Ministries for years until I started to work with survivors from all causes. They are veterans and work with veterans and their families. Way back in 1984 they figured out that healing had to be done with treating the whole veteran. Their mind, their body and above all, their spirit, needed care. They knew this because they had suffered too. They were lost, lonely and felt like outcast too. Some had turned to drugs, alcohol, and some tried to end their own lives, but they were helped by others who knew exactly what it felt like on both sides of healing. They were there to show the way to get to the better side of it.

Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous work the same way...someone knows what it is like to be struggling alone, but they know what it was like when someone came along and helped them heal.

There are groups all over the country doing the work with other survivors and you can find them by just doing a Google search for PTSD, whatever caused yours, and spiritual support. The thing is, if you try one but find they are not a good match for what you believe, then find another group. Keep looking until you find one to fill your soul, not try to convert it.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

Healing Rain
Michael W. Smith

Healing rain is coming down
It's coming nearer to this old town.
Rich and poor, weak and strong
It's bringing mercy, it won't be long.
Healing rain is coming down
It's coming closer to the lost and found.
Tears of joy and tears of shame
Are washed forever in Jesus' name.
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher.
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain.
Lift your heads, let us return
To the mercy seat where time began.
And in your eyes I see the pain.
Come soak this dry heart with healing rain.
And only you, the Son of Man
Can take a leper and let him stand.
So lift your hands, they can be held
By someone greater, the Great I Am.
Healing rain, it comes with fire
So let it fall and take us higher.
Healing rain, I'm not afraid
To be washed in Heaven's rain.
To be washed in Heaven's rain.
Healing rain is falling down,
Healing rain is falling down,
I'm not afraid.
I'm not afraid.
Healing rain is falling down,
Healing rain is falling down,
I'm not afraid.
I'm not afraid.
Healing rain is falling down,
Healing rain is falling down,
I'm not afraid.
I'm not afraid.
Healing rain is falling down,
Healing rain is falling down,
I'm not afraid.
I'm not afraid.
Healing rain is falling down,
Healing rain is falling down,
I'm not afraid.
I'm not afraid.

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Martin Smith / Matthew Bronleewe / Michael Smith
Healing Rain lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc, BMG Rights Management

Michael W. Smith - Healing Rain (Official Music Video)

Wednesday, May 19, 2021

The pep talk you need to give "you"

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
May 19, 2021

When I was young, I was a jock...and a klutz. Never a good combination but I loved to do several things. My favorite was swimming. I swam a mile a night, then worked at the YMCA as a lifeguard. I remember listening to a swim coach giving his pep talk to the opposing team.

He looked every single one of them in the eye and said things to them, they ended up telling themselves.
If you have someone telling you they believe in you, then you end up believing in yourself. Isn't it time for you to start doing it because you do believe you can?

Tell yourself you can heal PTSD and then you'll find a way to do it. There is an abundance of resources online for you to find and in your own community. 

Listen to the video for today and then listen to the featured video by Des'ree You Got To Be.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

You Gotta Be
Des'ree 

Listen as your day unfolds
Challenge what the future holds
Try and keep your head up to the sky
Lovers, they may cause you tears
Go ahead, release your fears
Stand up and be counted
Don't be ashamed to cry
You gotta be
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold, you gotta be wiser
You gotta be hard, you gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm, you gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Herald what your mother said
Read the books your father read
Try to solve the puzzles in your own sweet time
Some may have more cash than you
Others take a different view
My oh my, eh, eh, eh
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold, you gotta be wiser
You gotta be hard, you gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm, you gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Time asks no questions, it goes on without you
Leaving you behind if you can't stand the pace
The world keeps on spinning
Can't stop it if you tried to
The best part is danger staring you in the face, oh
Remember, listen as your day unfolds
Challenge what the future holds
Try and keep your head up to the sky
Lovers, they may cause you tears
Go ahead release your fears
My oh my, eh, eh, eh
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold, you gotta be wiser
You gotta be hard, you gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm, you gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Yeah, yeah, yeah
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold, you gotta be wiser
You gotta be hard, you gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm, you gotta stay together
All I know, all I know, love will save the day
Yeah-yeah
Got to be bold
Got to be bad
Got to be wise
Do what others say
Got to be hard
Not too too hard
All I know is love will save the day
You gotta be bad, you gotta be bold, you gotta be wiser
You gotta be hard, you gotta be tough, you gotta be stronger
You gotta be cool, you gotta be calm, you gotta stay together

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Des'ree Weekes / Ashley Ingram
You Gotta Be lyrics © Universal Music Publishing Group, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd. 

Saturday, May 8, 2021

there's no sorrow they can't rise above

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
May 8, 2021

Did you know there are people in this world who know "there's no sorrow they can't rise above?" Gordon Lightfoot called them Rainy Day People, and yes, that is the featured video of the day.

I remember about 10 years ago, I heard the song and it was the first time I thought of myself as a rainy day person. A lot of the song is the way I feel about things, but this one is one of the major ones.
"Rainy day people don't talk, they just listen till they've heard it all." I wouldn't be able to help anyone if I didn't listen to them, especially if they are dealing with surviving traumatic events. It is a gift when they have that ability, because I learned how to do it from people I met over the years who listened to me until I had nothing else to say.

Rainy Day People are great for many reasons. Other than being there for people in need of help, they also help them find hope. They understand what you are going through, because they've been there too. They also want you to know that you can become one of them too, and help others when they need it.

That is where the passing it on part comes in. Anyone can take their experiences and pass on hope to those struggling with something. And that, that is a beautiful thing delivered from those who love others.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it! 
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD 
Rainy Day People
Gordon Lightfoot

Rainy day people always seem to know when it's time to call
Rainy day people don't talk, they just listen till they've heard it all
Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell 'ya they've been down like you
Rainy day people don't mind if you're cryin' a tear or two
If you get lonely, all you really need is that rainy day love
Rainy day people all know there's no sorrow they can't rise above
Rainy day lovers don't love any others, that would not be kind
Rainy day people all know how it hangs on a piece of mind
Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell you, they've been down there too
Rainy day people don't mind if you're cryin' a tear or two.
Rainy day people always seem to know when you're feeling blue
High stepping strutters who land in the gutters sometimes need one too
Take it or leave it, or try to believe it
If you've been down too long
Rainy day lovers don't hide love inside they just pass it on
Rainy day lovers don't hide love inside they just pass it on

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: G Lightfoot
Rainy Day People lyrics © Wb Music Corp., Moose Music 

Saturday, May 1, 2021

"Sometimes darkness can show you the light" Disturbed

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
May 1, 2021

"Sometimes darkness can show you the light" is one of the most powerful things to say. It gives hope that the dark days will not last forever. You will not always feel trapped by the pain of your memories. As long as you open your eyes, you will be shown the way out of the darkness and into the light.

Disturbed, The Light is the featured video today. If you want to save lives, this is how you do it. You give people hope that it can get better. You don't remind them of how many others have given up, but you do remind the of how many have, not only survived, but healed. Too many give up because they do not know what is possible. They do not not know how much power they have to fight against the darkness that surrounds them. 

I don't like being around negative people. I worked in a lot of offices over the years. I hung around with happy people but did not avoid negative ones. I usually tried to find out why they were the way they were. I didn't ask a thousand questions but I listened to them a thousand times, trying to figure out what they need. Sometimes they had a hard life. Knowing what that felt like, I knew what they needed to hear from me because I made it out of that darkness. Sometimes they lost a lot of people in their life. Knowing what that was like, I knew what they needed to hear.

That is what people do when they make it out of misery and into happiness.

There is not much I can say that will come close to the power of the lyrics of this song, so I am keeping this short. When you listen to it, you will feel the power of it too and then, find hope that you can not just make it out of darkness too, but pull someone else out of afterwards.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD


The Light
Disturbed

Like an unsung melody
The truth is waiting there for you to find it
It's not a blight, but a remedy
A clear reminder of how it began
Deep inside your memory
Turned away as you struggled to find it
You heard the call as you walked away
A voice of calm from within the silence
And for what seemed an eternity
You're waiting, hoping it would call out again
You heard the shadow reckoning
Then your fears seemed to keep you blinded
You held your guard as you walked away
When you think all is forsaken
Listen to me now (all is not forsaken)
You need never feel broken again
Sometimes darkness can show you the light
An unforgivable tragedy
The answer isn't' where you think you'd find it
Prepare yourself for the reckoning
For when your world seems to crumble again
Don't be afraid, don't turn away
You're the one who can redefine it
Don't let hope become a memory
Let the shadow permeate your mind and
Reveal the thoughts that were tucked away
So that the door can be opened again
Within your darkest memories
Lies the answer if you dare to find it
Don't let hope become a memory
When you think all is forsaken
Listen to me now (all is not forsaken)
You need never feel broken again
Sometimes darkness can show you the light
Sickening, weakening
Don't let another somber pariah consume your soul
You need strengthening, toughening
It takes an inner dark to rekindle the fire burning in you
Ignite the fire within you
When you think all is forsaken
Listen to me now (all is not forsaken)
You need never feel broken again
Sometimes darkness can show you the light
Don't ignore, listen to me now (all is not forsaken)
You need never feel broken again
Sometimes darkness
Can show you the light

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Dan Donegan / David Draiman / Kevin Churko / Mike Wengren
The Light lyrics © Warner Chappell Music, Inc, Kobalt Music Publishing Ltd. 

Thursday, April 29, 2021

when you have PTSD some songs have wrong message for you

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
April 29, 2021

Someone suggested Wilson Phillips Hold On. The only thing I could think, was they didn't listen to the lyrics. If they did, then they'd know this song is not helpful, even though it is popular. The song was perfect for the movie Brides Maids because the main character messed up her own life but when you have PTSD it is the wrong message for you.



The song is a good song and I like listening to it but mission of PTSD Patrol is to help you understand what PTSD is and how much power you have over it. The songs are carefully chosen to deliver the message of the day. I read the lyrics and search to find an offical video for the post. Sometimes it is about helping you hear what you feel when you cannot find the words to express them. Other times it is to change your mood. Other times it is to offer comfort and let you know that no one is happy all the time. Mostly it is about making it feel a lot better living your life as a survivor of whatever caused PTSD.

I really appreciate song suggestions. The only music I listen to are from the 70's, 80's and 90's. I'm old and I don't really listen to new music. When people send suggestions, I end up with great songs like the ones from Disturbed Sound of Silence and Five Finger Death Punch Wrong Side of Heaven. Please keep them coming if they help you with PTSD.


Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD 



Hold On
Wilson Phillips

I know there's pain (I know there's pain)
Why do you lock yourself up in these chains? (These chains)
No one can change your life except for you
Don't ever let anyone step all over you
Just open your heart and your mind (Mmm)
Is it really fair to feel, this way inside? (Woah)
Some day somebody's gonna make you want to turn around and say goodbye
Until then, baby, are you going to let 'em hold you down and make you cry?
Don't you know? Don't you know, things can change
Things'll go your way
If you Hold On for one more day
Can you Hold On for one more day?
Things'll go your way
Hold On for one more day
You could sustain (You could sustain)
Hm, or are you comfortable with the pain?
You've got no one to blame for your unhappiness (No, baby)
You got yourself into your own mess (Ooh)
Lettin' your worries pass you by (Lettin' your worries pass you by)
Baby, don't you think it's worth your time
To change your mind? (No, no)
Some day somebody's gonna make you want to turn around and say goodbye
Until then, baby, are you going to let 'em hold you down and make you cry?
Don't you know? Don't you know, things can change
Things'll go your way
If you Hold On for one more day
Can you Hold On for one more day?
Things'll go your way (Oh, things'll go your way)
Hold On for one more day
I know that there is pain, but you
Hold On for one more day, and ya
Break free from the chains
Yeah I know that there is pain, but you
Hold On for one more day, and ya
Break free, break from the chains
Some day somebody's gonna make you want to turn around and say goodbye (and say goodbye)
Until then, baby, are you going to let 'em hold you down and make you cry?
Don't you know? Don't you know, things can change (Know)
Things'll go your way
If you Hold On for one more day, yeah
If you Hold On
Don't you know, things could change
Things could go your way
If you Hold On for one more day
Can you Hold On
Can you Hold On
Mmm, can you Hold On, baby
Won't you tell me now
Hold On for one more day, 'cause
It's gonna go your way
Don't you know, things could change
Things could go your way
If you Hold On for one more day, yeah
Can't you change it this time
Make up your mind
Hold On, Hold On
Baby Hold On

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Ballard Glen / Phillips Chynna / Wilson Carnie
Hold On lyrics © Universal Music Corp., Duchess Music Corp., Arlovol Music, Mca Music Publishing, A.d.o. Universal Studios 

Wednesday, April 14, 2021

And you know you can survive

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
April 14, 2021

"And you know you can survive" are some powerful words to hear when you don't think you can. When everyone you know will not, or cannot, offer you any hope or support, those words empower you to do more than just survive. They let you know you have the power to do that!

Today the featured video is Mariah Carey, Hero. If you ended up with PTSD because of your job, risking your life for others, or sacrificing for the sake of others, you already know what a hero is, but you are the last one to claim that title for yourself. If you have PTSD because of your "job" then it was much more than a just a job. It was your vocation. Average people do not take those jobs. You are above average.
I used this song in a video from a long time ago, PTSD Hero After War for members of the military, with I'll Stand By You from The Pretenders. In this war against PTSD, you can also be a hero to someone else fighting their own war to reclaim their life. Once you heal, you can stand by them and show them the way. You can encourage them when they have no courage left. You can empower them when they cannot find enough power to get up out of bed.

If your job caused it, understand that humans are not built to withstand the constant onslaught of traumatic events. Most of the people you risked your life for, ended up with PTSD from the event you responded to...one event for them but it was one of many for you.

The thing is, as human as you are, if God put it into your soul to do that kind of job, He also equipped you with everything you need to heal from it. It is built into your emotional core and that core is stronger than others, or you wouldn't have been able to do that job for more than a little while. Most of the people I worked with over the years, had done the "job" for many years and faced so many events they were not even sure which one hit them the hardest.

Now think about what kind of hero you can be to others just by telling your story and sharing your own struggles with them. You are not done serving others even if you had to give up the job that caused PTSD. There are over 8 million Americans with PTSD, that is known about. There are many more who have it by have no idea what it is going on with them and they have not sought out help. You can reach them to and encourage them to seek help to take back their lives from PTSD too.
Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD 


Hero
Mariah Carey

There's a hero
If you look inside your heart
You don't have to be afraid
Of what you are
There's an answer
If you reach into your soul
And the sorrow that you know
Will melt away
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you'll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you
It's a long road
When you face the world alone
No one reaches out a hand
For you to hold
You can find love
If you search within yourself
And that emptiness you felt
Will disappear
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you'll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you, oh, oh
Lord knows
Dreams are hard to follow
But don't let anyone
Tear them away, hey yeah
Hold on
There will be tomorrow
In time you'll find the way
And then a hero comes along
With the strength to carry on
And you cast your fears aside
And you know you can survive
So when you feel like hope is gone
Look inside you and be strong
And you'll finally see the truth
That a hero lies in you
That a hero lies in you
Mmm, that a hero lies in you

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Mariah Carey / Walter Afanasieff
Hero lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc, Universal Music Publishing Group, Royalty Network 

PTSD Hero After War

Saturday, April 10, 2021

And I'm gonna go there free

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
April 10, 2021

Today the featured video is Jim Croce, I Got A Name because it talks about having a hopeful attitude, "movin' me down the highway...movin' ahead so life won't pass me by." Is life passing you by because you think you're stuck where you are? The only thing that is keeping you from getting unstuck is not knowing you have the power to decide your own future.


There was a time when I couldn't figure out why this song was used in Django Unhained. Then it dawned on me that he was going to where he wanted and was going there free. Free of all that happened to him because he did not want to be limited by the things that he had no control over. He got lucky and found someone who needed his help and then, turned around to help him.

Someone may have the same name as you do. Someone may look like you. Someone may have a story that is similar to your own. The thing is, no one has the exact same life are you do. You may find someone in a support group talking about what their life is like with PTSD, but while part of their story is like your own, it isn't your story.

Sure it is wise to find a support group that focuses on what cause PTSD in you, but remember, it is not a contest. Feel sorry for them, because you know how it makes you feel. Feel happy for them because you know what it is like to begin to #TakeBackYourLife from PTSD. Take the ideas they give you and pass on things you learned to others. Let them hug you when you need it just as you are willing to let them rejoice with you when you start to write the next part of your own story.


(I messed up in this video and said it was "Durango" because I watched too many Westerns...I could have just did another video but I have no problem admitting mistakes I make. It makes life happier knowing I don't have to be perfect and don't have to pretend I am.)

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD
I Got a Name
Jim Croce

Like the pine trees linin' the windin' road
I've got a name, I've got a name
Like the singin' bird and the croakin' toad
I've got a name, I've got a name
And I carry it with me like my daddy did
But I'm livin' the dream that he kept hid
Movin' me down the highway
Rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
Like the north wind whistlin' down the sky
I've got a song, I've got a song
Like the whirlpool whirl and the baby's cry
I've got a song, I've got a song
And I carry it with me and I sing it loud
If it gets me nowhere, I'll go there proud
Movin' me down the highway
Rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
And I'm gonna go there free
Like the fool I am and I'll always be
I've got a dream, I've got a dream
They can change their minds but they can't change me
I've got a dream, I've got a dream
Oh, I know I could share it if you'd want me too
If you're going my way, I'll go with you
Movin' me down the highway
Rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by
Movin' me down the highway
Rollin' me down the highway
Movin' ahead so life won't pass me by

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Norman Gimbel / Charles Fox
I Got a Name lyrics © Warner-tamerlane Publishing Corp.

Friday, April 2, 2021

When PTSD is trying to run your life...crush it!

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
April 2, 2021

Did you know that PTSD will keep controlling your life until you do? That's right! You can crush it if you decide that it doesn't get to control you anymore and #TakeBackYourLife from PTSD!

Today the featured video is Sunshine by Jonathan Edwards because PTSD wants you to tell the sunshine to just go away. It doesn't want any light to enter into your life, it wants you do stay miserable. 

One of the lines is, "he's got cards he ain't showing" and that is the secret of defeating PTSD. It has a weaker hand than it wants you to think it does. You have been led to think he has all the Aces, but they are all still in the deck and waiting for you to find them.

As soon as you start to talk about it, start to fight to find hope and let it begin to fill you up again, it starts to get crushed. The more you heal, the more it gets pushed out of your life.

Consider Lt. Justin Jensen as a reason to get help and take control over your own life.  He tried different things, after he stopped trying to deny he needed help and then didn't give up on finding what worked for him!
Lt. Justin Jensen pauses for a portrait while talking about his bouts with post traumatic stress disorder March 3 at the Burley Fire Department. Jensen recently received a firefighter of the year award. 'I was a ticking time bomb with a short fuse that had been lit and then re-lit,' he said.
DREW NASH, TIMES-NEWS

Triumphing over PTSD: Burley firefighter wins Firefighter of the Year award
Magic Valley
Laurie Welch
34 min ago

Justin Jensen felt stunned when he was named Firefighter of Year by the Professional Fire Fighters of Idaho after spending the past year clashing with demons brought to life by post-traumatic stress disorder.

“It’s our most prestigious award that recognizes one of our own,” Rob Shoplock, a firefighter with the Eagle Fire Department and vice president of the firefighters’ union. As vice president, Shoplock lobbies for industry changes with state lawmakers.

The organization presented the award to Jensen on Feb. 22 during a virtual conference.

The award left the 44-year-old Burley man feeling emotional, overwhelmed and without words, something he said he hopes to remedy with a speech during next year’s conference.
read more here

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
Justin tried to get help to heal and found it. So can you!

Sunshine
Jonathan Edwards 

Sunshine go away today
I don't feel much like dancing
Some man's gone, he's tried to run my life
Don't know what he's asking
He tells me I'd better get in line
Can't hear what he's saying
When I grow up I'm going to make it mine
But these aren't dues I been paying
How much does it cost, I'll buy it
The time is all we've lost, I'll try it
But he can't even run his own life
I'll be damned if he'll run mine, Sunshine
Sunshine go away today
I don't feel much like dancing
Some man's gone he's tried to run my life
Don't know what he's asking
Working starts to make me wonder where
The fruits of what I do are going
He says in love and war all is fair
But he's got cards he ain't showing
How much does it cost, I'll buy it
The time is all we've lost, I'll try it
But he can't even run his own life
I'll be damned if he'll run mine, Sunshine
Sunshine come on back another day
I promise you I'll be singing
This old world, she's gonna turn around
Brand new bells'll be ringing

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Jonathan Edwards
Sunshine lyrics © Castle Hill Publishing Ltd., Castle Hill Publishing Ltd 

Thursday, April 1, 2021

PTSD Patrol thanks you for lifting others Higher And Higher

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
April 1, 2021

Today's video was chosen for two reasons. The first one is, to say thank you! Thank you for passing this work on because PTSD Patrol has passed 91,000 page views. That would not have happened if you were not passing this work along and letting others know that their lives can be better. The other reason is to remind you that your own healing can be lifting you "Higher And Higher" too!

There is no limit to your healing. Even if you think life is good enough for you, it can be even better when you help someone else. Lifting them up lifts you. There is no price you can put on that feeling, knowing you changed someone's life for the better. They turn around and change the lives of others in their life and hopefully, change the lives of strangers too.

I am often reminded that I'll never know how many people I reach with this work, but the only way they are reached is for others to share it and you blessed me doing that!

Now once, I was downhearted disappointment was my closest friend
But you came, he soon departed and he never showed his face again

My life is not just blessed, but you also blessed others by giving them hope and letting them know their own life doesn't have to be filled with doom and gloom.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

Higher And Higher
Your love is liftin me higher, than I've ever been lifted before.
Your love is liftin me higher, than I've ever been lifted before
So keep it up, quench my desire and I'll be at your side forever more
Now once, I was downhearted disappointment was my closest friend
But you came, he soon departed and he never showed his face again
I'm so glad I finally found you, your that one in a million man
When you wrap your lovin arms around me
I can stand up and face the world again
Your love is liftin me higher than I've ever been lifted before (higher)
So keep it up, quench my desire
And I'll be at your side forever more (higher)
(Repeat x3)

Source: Musixmatch
Songwriters: Gary Jackson / Raynard Miner / Carl Smith
(Your Love Has Lifted Me) Higher and Higher lyrics © Warner-tamerlane Publishing Corp., Unichappell Music Inc., Mijac Music 

Sunday, February 21, 2021

Never thought I could feel so free

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
February 21, 2021

This isn't the message I planned on delivering today, but sometimes that happens. There are times when I'll be on Facebook and a friend had posted a music video that really hits me. Sometimes I'll hear a song on the radio, usually an oldie I hadn't heard for a while, and my mood totally changes. Today it was a commercial on TV with using a theme song from The Greatest American Hero, Believe It Or Not.

Music does have the power to change our moods. It can lift us up when we're down, or just comfort us enough so we don't feel alone anymore. This is why I use music videos. Back in 2006 when I did the first video on PTSD Wounded Minds, I used several songs.



Back then, this one and many others were over 10,000 views but YouTube blocked the music. There wasn't much point leaving them up without the songs. I moved them to Great Americans. By the time I finally had one of the accounts where YouTube would allow use of music, most people had forgotten about the work I did six years before that. 

The message has always been the same because I believed if people knew what PTSD was, how much power they did have over their lives, they would start to heal. I wanted to change the conversation away from doom and gloom, the way music changed my moods.

Healing feels a lot like walking on air! People are shocked when they discover how free they feel when all they thought was that suffering was the only thing in front of them. Now you are learning that you are on the road to healing and your destination is a happier life!

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!
#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

Believe It or Not
Joey Scarbury

(Theme Greatest American Hero)

Look at what's happened to me
I can't believe it myself
Suddenly I'm up on top of the world
It should have been somebody else
Believe it or not, I'm walkin' on air
I never thought I could feel so free
Flyin' away on a wing and a prayer
Who could it be?
Believe it or not it's just me
Just like the light of a new day
It hit me from out of the blue
Breaking me out of the spell I was in
Making all of my wishes come true
Believe it or not, I'm walkin' on air
I never thought I could feel so free
Flyin' away on a wing and a prayer
Who could it be?
Believe it or not it's just me
This is too good to be true
Look at me falling for you
Believe it or not, I'm walkin' on air
I never thought I could feel so free
Flyin' away on a wing and a prayer
Who could it be?
Believe it or not it's just me
Believe it or not, I'm walkin' on air
I never thought I could feel so free
Flyin' away on a wing and a prayer
Who could it be?
Believe it or not it's just me
Believe it or not, I'm walkin' on air
I never thought I could feel so free
Flyin' away on a wing and a prayer
Who could it be?
Believe it or not it's just me

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Michael Postil / Stephen G Geyer
Believe It or Not lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner Chappell Music, Inc, Wixen Music Publishing 

Friday, February 12, 2021

Are you following your turn signals?

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
February 12, 2021

When you are lucky enough to know your purpose in life, it can come with a lot of heartache. It can also come with an inner peace if you look at your purposed in the right way.

A friend of mine is a Presbyterian Minister. She preaches at a church, but she also does a weekly sermon on YouTube called Geeks Of Fatih. These sermons are for those who feel they do not belong in a church but belong in the group of like minded Science Fiction fans. They are blended with that, plus current events and Bible passages. She saw a need and while she was still living her purpose, she adapted to meet that need.

I worked with her for a couple of years while I was Administrator of Christian Ed and she was the youth pastor. She is filling her purpose in the church the same as she is filling it online to this group, filled with  love and true compassion. 

For many years my purpose was to help others after surviving trauma. For 38 years it was helping veterans and their families, then military members, followed by first responders. Because of the pandemic, knowing there were already over 8 million in the US with diagnosed PTSD, it was necessary to open up to help everyone dealing with surviving trauma. My purpose didn't change but over the years, I had to adapt to meet the needs too.


To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven

There are some people who are doing exactly what they were called to do but it is hard when they look at it the wrong way. I am guilty of that myself from time to time. I get angry when I discover my work being used by others, as if it was theirs to just take. But when I get my ego out of the way, I have peace.

Look at it this way. Our purpose has limits. John the Baptist had the job to prepare the way for Jesus, but not to be Jesus. When Jesus sent out the 12 Disciples everyone knows because they were named in the Bible, He also sent out 72 with them. No one knows their names but they are responsible for clearing the way for Christianity to spread.
10 After this the Lord appointed seventy-two others and sent them two by two ahead of him to every town and place where he was about to go. 2 He told them, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.
Luke 10

Do you think they looked back on their lives and thought it was wasted? No because they saw the people face to face, knowing their lives changed because of them. They knew that those people, would also change the lives of others they came in contact with.

All of us can't be superstars or famous or rich. It is not the job of all of us to be the leader of the parades, but all parades need someone to decide where to march and clear the way for the others to get from one place to another.

Are you following your turn signals?

That is why today, the featured video is The Byrds, Turn, Turn, Turn. Live your purpose no matter who supports you because of the One Who Sent You to do it!

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive!

#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD

Turn! Turn! Turn!
The Byrds

To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones, a time to gather stones together
To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace, a time to refrain from embracing
To everything (turn, turn, turn)
There is a season (turn, turn, turn)
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time for love, a time for hate
A time for peace, I swear it's not too late

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Peter Seeger
Turn! Turn! Turn! lyrics © T.R.O. Inc. 

Friday, January 29, 2021

PTSD Patrol not backing down at gate of hell

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
January 29, 2021

Someone asked me why I haven't given up yet. After all, considering how long I've been doing this work, it is easy to think I'm a failure. I never made enough money to do this for a living, I'm not rich and have been introduced as "the most famous person you never heard of" for good reason. I've done the work for the sake of the work and nothing else.

As for the famous part, if you ever hear the term "suffering in silence" or "new normal" they are just a couple examples of the fact that the terms became famous, while "no one" heard of where they came from. New normal came from living with PTSD because everything we were going through was actually our normal life as survivors. Suffering in silence was in my first book because back then, no one was talking about PTSD, so anyone with it, felt they had to hide what was happening to us.

Not backing down is why today's feature video is I Won't Back Down
'A Song For Any Struggle': Tom Petty's 'I Won't Back Down' Is An Anthem Of Resolve
NPR 

Of all his many, many hit songs, the one that Tom Petty said had the most direct and powerful impact on his fans was "I Won't Back Down." 

Well, I won't back down
No, I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down
The song was released in 1989 on Petty's solo album Full Moon Fever. The artist told interviewers that people would come up to him all the time, or would write to him, sharing stories of how this song — with its plainspoken message of resilience and empowerment — helped steer them through difficult times. 

"He told me that he heard, or read somewhere, that it brought a girl out of a coma," recalls his widow, Dana Petty. "It was her favorite song and they played it and she came out of a coma, which blew his mind." (click link for more)

The thing is, I never did and never will back down! You shouldn't either. I stood at the gates of hell and told PTSD I won't back down. I've gone after groups who just used our suffering for their own bank accounts and didn't back down. I wouldn't back down from fighting for my husband, anymore than I would back down on fighting for others to heal.

You may think that healing is a scary thing because suffering can become comfortable where there are no surprises and you don't go into the unknown. Healing can be a scary because it requires leaps of faith, work and change. That is the truth but it is also true that you won't ever get happy again until you heal and not settling for what "is" will make a happier life possible.

Don't back down just because you think it is hard. While it takes longer to heal than when "it" happened to you, it isn't harder than surviving it itself.

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it!



Tom Petty I Won't Back Down 


Well, I won't back down
No, I won't back down
You can stand me up at the gates of hell
But I won't back down
No, I'll stand my ground
Won't be turned around
And I'll keep this world from draggin' me down
Gonna stand my ground
And I won't back down
(I won't back down)
Hey, baby, there ain't no easy way out
(I won't back down)
Hey, I will stand my ground
And I won't back down
Well I know what's right
I got just one life
In a world that keeps on pushin' me around
But I'll stand my ground
And I won't back down
(I won't back down)
Hey, baby, there ain't no easy way out
(I won't back down)
Hey, I will stand my ground
And I won't back down
Hey baby, there ain't no easy way out
(I won't back down)
Hey, I won't back down
(I won't back down)
Hey, baby, there ain't no easy way out
(I won't back down)
Hey, I will stand my ground
And I won't back down
No, I won't back down

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Jeff Lynne / Tom Petty
I Won't Back Down lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Gone Gator Music 

Sunday, December 13, 2020

HANG ON! These thing take time.

PTSD Patrol
Kathie Costos
December 13, 2020

HANG ON! These thing take time. Those are part of the lyrics from Needtobreathe's Hang On, and that is a message you need to reminded of when you are trying to heal PTSD, even though the song is not about PTSD.

It took time for everyone who ever healed and it will take time for you. It takes leaps of opened eyed faith to know that you can change how things are for you. You have to learn a way of healing that will take care of all the parts of you...your mind, your body and your spirit.

Things take time, so you also need patience with yourself and others. It took time for PTSD to change you and it will take time to change again. It takes time for you to understand, and it will take time for those around you to understand too. 

Remember, it is your life...get in and drive it. 

#BreakTheSilence and #TakeBackYourLife from #PTSD



"Hang On"
First touch of summer, she's got your t-shirt on
Sun's going down, schools out, stars are coming on
You can rewind it, but you can't ever feel like you do tonight
Make a movie in your mind, but don't rush it
Boy, you're about to see the light

Hang on to the light in your eyes and the feeling
Hang on to your love drunk original reason
Hang on to the small town you love but you're leaving
Oh you won't be a fool for so long
So hang on 
If you listen to the voices inside they won't do you wrong
You can look back over your shoulder, yeah, but don't look too long
It takes time to realize
That your life's gonna pass you by

So hang on to the light in your eyes and the feeling
Hang on to your love drunk original reason
So hang on to the small town you love but you're leaving
'Cause you won't be a fool for so long

Oh, these things they take time
And all these things take time, these things they take time
And all these things I've learned, it's never a straight line
'Cause all these things take time, these things they take time

So hang on to the light in your eyes and the feeling
Hang on to your love drunk original reason
'Cause all these things take time, these things they take time
And all these things I've learned, it's never a straight line

So hang on to the light in your eyes and the feeling
So hang on to your love drunk original reason
So hang on to the small town you love but you're leaving
Oh you won't be a fool for so long
So hang on

(All these things they take time)
Hang on
(All these things they take time)
Hang on
(All these things they take time)

(AZ Lyrics) 

bonus song
Who Am I

White lights and desperation
Hard times and conversation
No one should ever love me like you do
Sometimes my bad decisions
Define my false suspicions
No one should ever love me like you do
While I'm on this road you take my hand
Somehow you really love who I really am
I push you away, still you won't let go
You grow your roses on my barren soul
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
Last night, confidence was shaken
My wounds and my past was saying
No one should ever love me like you do
While I'm on this road you take my hand
Somehow you really love who I really am
I push you away, still you won't let go
You grow your roses on my barren soul
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
The way I push you through it, what you had to see
I'm a train wreck, I'm a mess, you see the best
And the worst in me
Still I can't imagine that I've learned your trust
I don't understand where your love comes from
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you
Who am I, who am I, who am I
To be loved by you

Source: LyricFind
Songwriters: Nathaniel Rinehart / William Rinehart
Who Am I lyrics © Downtown Music Publishing 

guide to take back our life

June 26, 2021 The new site for PTSD Patrol  is up and running. New blog posts will begin there on June 27, 2021. This site will remain up.

PTSD Patrol

PTSD Patrol
It is your life, get in and drive it