U.S. Marine Vietnam Sacrifice is a memoir by Raymond Isaac Lindsey, a Vietnam veteran, of his experiences after the war, written by his wife, Crystal Mary Lindsey. At nineteen, Raymond (Ray) fought in the Vietnam War against children recruited by the Viet Cong. The experience left him with physical and mental injuries. His therapy and treatment in Japan caused more harm, and when he returned home, he experienced symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Despite having a loving family and friends, Ray felt like he was in another world most of the time, which affected his relationships. He could not sleep because of his narcolepsy, and when he finally closed his eyes, he had nightmares. Ray eventually met Crystal, an Australian nurse whose father had experienced PTSD. The two fell in love, and she brought light into his dark life and helped him confront his demons.
Ray’s story is an emotional tale that raises awareness about PTSD. The book highlights symptoms of PTSD, which include anxiety, mood swings, depression, and sensitivity to sounds and smells. Ray experienced all these and more but did not let them defeat him. U.S. Marine Vietnam Sacrifice is non-linear, but it is easy to follow. It contains flashbacks from Ray's life before the war and the circumstances that led him to join the military. His sense of adventure and freedom was short-lived, and I felt terrible for him. I loved his diligence in trying to recover. He tried many activities like motorcycling, painting, playing golf, and joining singles groups to cope with his trauma. Most people experiencing depression and anxiety fail to try and end up committing suicide or being consumed by the darkness. The book is well written and organized, with pictures of Ray and a consistent format. The picture of the military boots and helmet at the beginning of every chapter was a nice touch. Crystal Mary Lindsey wrote passionately, and I appreciate her sharing Ray’s story with the world.
In the depths of the magnificent Great Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, a secret resides, shrouded in mystery and concealed from the world's prying eyes.
Who is this enigmatic figure known as the MYSTERY Healer?
And why does he diligently safeguard his true identity?
Meet Marni Granger, a resilient young woman residing at the base of the mountains.
In her early years, tragedy struck when she accidentally fell against a scalding cooking pot, leaving a burn etched on her face.
The resulting disfigurement inflicted emotional wounds that haunted her throughout her childhood and adulthood.
One fateful day, Marni ventured into the heart of the mountains, accompanied by her faithful wolf companion.
Time slips away, and darkness descended upon the dense forest.
Exhausted and disoriented, Marni seeks refuge. Curling up in a hidden nook, she falls asleep.
On awakening, her treasured pet was nowhere to be found.
Overwhelmed, Marni turns to heaven, beseeching the Lord for guidance and assistance.
A hauntingly beautiful figure clothed in pristine white appears before her.
This mysterious woman calls out Marni's name and beckoned her to follow to a lone cabin.
In the heart of the mountains, the MYSTERY Healer and Marni embarked on an extraordinary journey of restoration and self-discovery.