On December 08 2022 two-time Olympic gold medalist Brittney Griner found herself standing front and center at the most viewed prisoner swap in modern day history. Government officials who executed the exchange were shadowed by her presence as BG sauntered across the tarmac with an innate vigor.
For a mere moment frozen in time, a tense exchange was elevated to illuminate the power of collective prayer. We all petitioned Jesus Christ for her safe return which was richly personified throughout the media.
Then, the focus shifted to Griner’s signature tresses, or lack thereof. There was little opining over the redeployment process or substantial mental health obstacles that the superstar and her family may endure as a result of the illegal detainment. Interestingly, a comparatively similar narrative once flooded mainstream media as American service members returned home to eagerly awaiting families in airport hangers during the Gulf War. The story does not conclude with warm embraces and a photo-op that sells units. Rather, one could argue that a willingness to hastily accept such feel good tales is a direct reflection of our discomfort with profound vulnerability.
In an effort to assuage such displeasure, we tend to focus on superficial attributes that elicit a sense of elitism by subtly reminding others of long upheld stereotypes. In what world does America care more about Brittany Griner’s coif than her peaceful ingratiation back into society?
I would like to learn more about PTSD.
A. Yes
B. No
C. Maybe
Never one to let a crisis go to waste, I am curious as to why the opportunity to shed light upon post-traumatic stress disorder was missed. The person who returned to American soil following ten months of illegal detainment is not the same person who departed. Similarly, service members who have returned to American soil following overseas deployments are not the same people who departed. As a society, we find ourselves at a crossroads; keep it moving or get involved.
Let us transition the focus from hair to health and explore the interconnectedness of trauma. For some the practice begins with initiating an intimate conversation, while others are more comfortable driving a healthy narrative. Regardless one’s contribution, society benefits from intentional conversations about our humanity. So lean in… Welcome to the MSM Peanut Gallery! Please take responsibility for your behavior as you enter this shared space. Keep conversations courteous and on-topic to foster productive, respectful communication. Review our Community Guidelines before posting.
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