175. Hidden Pearls Podcast - Bob Taylor - Part 1

 There is a very large problem in our veteran community - Every day, 640 veterans attempt suicide, 22 veterans die, and over 5,500 are thinking about committing suicide. In fact, more veterans died from suicide in a ten-year period than during the entire span of the Vietnam War.
Approximately 48% of all military members struggle after transitioning from military service. They lose their team, their identity, their mission, the friends, their purpose. All with no more than a handshake and a thank you. While at the same time often facing a plethora of physical and mental health issues. While difficult and a big challenge, these struggles don’t have to be, and should not be, the end of their story. There is a bright and successful future available for every veteran if we can help them help themselves to reach their greatest potential.
In this part 1 of our 2 part series, Emma and Bruce are joined by Air Force Veteran, Bob Taylor.
 His book, From Service to Success, is a lifeline for veterans who seek to move past the pain and trauma of service and adapt to a new way of living. This book is also a resource for any civilian who knows a veteran or is connected to the military in anyway. The more awareness we can bring to these alarming numbers, the more we can break the stigma around mental health and move from a perspective of weakness and brokenness, to one of opportunity and growth, we can begin to get people the help they need.
 According to Bob, “We need to find forgiveness for ourselves, find a new purpose, learn new tools and skills, and press forward so we don't spend the rest of our lives in the darkness.”
In From Service to Success, Bob Taylor explains that while it's very important for veterans to have the means to support themselves, it is absolutely critical that they learn ways to become a part of their community, to forgive themselves, to develop healthy living styles, and to grab onto the best that life has to offer. The three most important steps for veterans to take after reading From Service to Success: •Create a mindset of gratitude •Find a way to sleep through the night—if necessary, seek help to get there •Discover a purpose bigger than themselves
We really enjoyed getting to know Bob and hearing how his own personal quest for healing has transformed his life as well as influencing the lives of so many around him.

Part 2 will be available next week! 

Bob’s book can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/Service-Success-Mission-Purpose-Journey/dp/1636980171?nodl=1&dplnkId=e9fccd41-263d-486a-aa99-27d3ee921962

If you know anyone who could benefit from this episode please share the link to the show or Bob’s book. 

We encourage all veterans and retired players to join Merging Vets and Players. Our mission is to UNITE in community so that you still have a team when the uniform comes off. More information can be found at https://vetsandplayers.org . And if you decide to join you are invited to participate in our free Hidden Pearls Monthly Mindfulness Class. 

Thank you for listening! 

Emma & Bruce