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Becoming an Ambassador of Goodwill

3/12/2013

1 Comment

 
My Father served in the military.  Generations of both my parent's families served in the military. My Brother, Brother-in-law, my husband, and I also served.  I have nieces, nephews, cousins and friends currently serving. 

We have known joy, sorrow, strength, weakness, and being alone in areas that were not our home.  We have been raised, raised our children and participating in the next generation's path through the challenges of military life and standing up for the freedom of many.  

As far back as I remember, there never was the deep desire to go to war nor harm another.  There was however, the willingness to lay down our lives if need be to stop aggression on others less capable of protecting themselves.  Many came back from war with Medals of honor and injury.  Some gave the ultimate sacrifice.  One of My Father's brothers was killed in Korea; and more recently, a cousin was killed in Afghanistan. 

In my family, there was always a code of honor among us and the choice to be an Ambassador of good will and love.  

Our Father was our protector, strong in commitment and gentle in  leadership with a willingness to help others less capable.  Our Mother taught us the importance of of being a peacemaker and maintaining the presence of caring in all the communities we lived.  


Military family life often set us apart.  We moved often, had few lifelong friends, and had little knowledge of where we would go next.  Not all moves were wanted, nor were they friendly.  Often military children and families were treated as outsiders.  We could have grown up with negative energy and memories - because of our parent's love and guidance, we did not. 

As a military family, we lived in many communities and even a few foreign countries.  Regardless the atmosphere, our parents told us that each new community may be the only chance we had to do our best, explore the surroundings, and find what made each place special. 

The thing that was always instilled in my family was that each of us were ambassadors of our family, our community and our nation - regardless the situation.  

Having served as woman in the military in the field of electronics, there were additional challenges.  I joined the Air Force during the Vietnam Conflict when the men and women were separated with their own units of management (WAF) while working side by side in our chosen career (electronics communication equipment repair).  Guess you could say I was also a pioneer for women in non-traditional work.  Recognition of being an ambassador of women's rights and capabilities was also a vital part of my journey.  

Through it all the main thread that kept inspiration, positive steps, and even moments that built pride in life's participation was the result from the small, usually unnoticed, actions that were a major turning point for others struggling to find balance.  I have lived and worked among war heroes, leaders, and humanitarians.  

Yet, the hero of one person's heart as an ambassador of love is often the one I remember the most.  

I sincerely believe that when individuals are given the chance to become a voluntary community member of good will, teams of everyday heroes will emerge from within their hometown. 

They will be wearing the badge of courage for change, the strength from stepping forward  and the smiles from heartfelt appreciation of those they meet. 

Participating in results as an ambassador is greater than any government demands, forced responsibilities, or loss of freedoms. It is the choice to participate in life with awareness and healing while experiencing receiving more than we ever dreamed.  It is the reward of community and self worth, most of all love from those whose lives you touched.  All because we help create a life less taxing with controls and financial burdens while abundant the nature of an Ambassador. 

We are seeking those wanting to bring back hope and healing to our hometowns and veterans.  Please join us in this outreach.  Each step in this process is a new step for hope and happiness.   In sincere regards, Jurene Mason
1 Comment
Jennifer Wilcox
9/6/2013 01:25:41 am

I've been following this site since I found it (about a year or so ago) and I wanted to pass along my gratitude. This site is an excellent resource since it combines helpful information in one area. I've been in Spokane for about 6 years (I'm a veteran) and had a hard time finding much information/assistance for vets for a long time (and I'm a fairly resourceful person). Of the agencies/groups that I did find, many were unaware of what the other groups were doing so I often got conflicting information or misinformation which greatly affected my ability to make any progress. I'm involved in other veteran groups and there is encouraging progress being made in helping veterans and their families. They are unaware of this site and I will pass this information to their staff and other veterans..

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    Jurene Mason

    During my life, I was a military dependent daughter, wife, USAF Active Duty service member and a Veteran Advocate.  My military service spanned the Era's of Peacetime Service, Vietnam, Cold War, and Desert Storm.  

    Having experienced many of the challenges and issues connected with the military community, my choice to become an advocate for outreach, connecting and healing has never been stronger or more passionate. 

    Through my sharing here, there is hope to inspire, motivate and provide a positive avenue of change for many.  You are welcome to join us in our efforts to honor our journey. 

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"Military Veterans know how dig in and get the job done. The work at home is much more valuable when we do it together and share the load.  You haven't lost touch with your fellow soldiers, you have a country filled with many that want to serve with you.  You are up to the task, join the outreach."    Jurene Mason, USAF Vet

This service is offered to all veterans, and military community by a Vietnam/Desert Storm Veteran.  Speaking as One Veteran to Another, thank you for serving in the military. Now lets help each other heal and continue to serve on our home front with integrity, honor and dedication.