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| (Image by Paul Whiting) |
The Strength of God
The Strength
To Carry On Is
The Strength Of God.
-Paul Whiting
(a.k.a., A Creative Writer)
"I maybe say too much about how life really is!"
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My Writing About Donating To Wounded Warrior Project, Or To Other Highly-Rated Veterans' Charities: Please join me by donating to the Wounded Warrior Project or to other highly-rated veterans' charities dedicated to U.S. Veterans and U.S. Military Service Members,* in order to Honor the Sacrifice of Our Wounded Warriors! –Paul Whiting (written February 23rd, 2013, revised March 10th, 2014, revised October 5th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022 and revised November 11th, 2022)
*According to Charity Navigator, there are "over 40,000 American charities with military-related missions" and the American people "donate more than $2.5 billion annually" to these organizations.
Wounded Worrier Project
Mission:
☆ To honor and empower Wounded Warriors.
Vision:
☆ To foster the most successful, well-adjusted generation of wounded service members in our nation's history.
Purpose:
☆ To raise awareness and enlist the public's aid for the needs of injured service members.
☆ To help injured service members aid and assist each other.
☆ To provide unique, direct programs and services to meet the needs of injured service members
https://www.woundedwarriorproject.org/
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My Writing About Psychological Healing Through Professional Therapy (One Paragraph): As a self-designated 'Poet, Artist and Philosopher,' I feel an obligation to explain what I believe to be true about psychological healing through professional therapy. You see, in my lifetime I have dealt with many psychological (mental health) issues, including generalized anxiety disorder, and/or clinical depression, for which I have sought treatment through professional therapy on multiple occasions. Therefore, during those times in my life when I felt like I needed therapy, I would kind of "put my life on hold," so to speak, until I had dealt with whatever issue that was making me feel "stuck" in my life. That way, I could totally heal that particular issue—for however long that it took to heal that particular issue—and, then, I could finally get on with my life... Thankfully, I was raised in a family in which going to see a therapist was perfectly acceptable—if necessary—just like going see a medical doctor was perfectly acceptable, if necessary. Thus, our culture's beliefs regarding medical treatment of physiological (physical) issues goes something like the following: If you have the kind of injury that you can treat with a Band-Aid and some Neosporin, or if you have the kind of illness that you can treat with NyQuil and/or DayQuil, by all means do so! If, however, you have a much more severe injury—and/or if you have a much more severe illness—you go see a medical doctor, or you go to an urgent care clinic, or you go to the emergency room, so that you can heal! And our culture's beliefs regarding therapeutic (therapy) treatment of psychological (mental health) issues should basically be the same kind of thinking: So, if you are just feeling "a little down in the dumps," so to speak, you can simply talk to a family member, or a friend, or chat online with someone on a social networking site, and that takes care of the issue! If, however, you have much more severe psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or much more severe psychological illnesses, such as clinical depression, or suicidal thoughts, you go see a licensed therapist—like a Licensed Professional Counselor, or a Psychologist (which is a licensed therapist with a graduate degree in psychology), or a Psychiatrist (which is a licensed therapist with a graduate degree in psychology who is also a medical doctor)—or you call a crisis helpline, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 988 on your telephone), so that you can heal! –Paul Whiting (written September 10th, 2022, revised October 22nd, 2023 and revised June 15th, 2024)
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My Writing About Psychological Healing Through Professional Therapy (Multiple Paragraphs): As a self-designated 'Poet, Artist and Philosopher,' I feel an obligation to explain what I believe to be true about psychological healing through professional therapy.
You see, in my lifetime I have dealt with many psychological (mental health) issues, including generalized anxiety disorder, and/or clinical depression, for which I have sought treatment through professional therapy on multiple occasions. Therefore, during those times in my life when I felt like I needed therapy, I would kind of "put my life on hold," so to speak, until I had dealt with whatever issue that was making me feel "stuck" in my life. That way, I could totally heal that particular issue—for however long that it took to heal that particular issue—and, then, I could finally get on with my life... Thankfully, I was raised in a family in which going to see a therapist was perfectly acceptable—if necessary—just like going see a medical doctor was perfectly acceptable, if necessary.
Thus, our culture's beliefs regarding medical treatment of physiological (physical) issues goes something like the following: If you have the kind of injury that you can treat with a Band-Aid and some Neosporin, or if you have the kind of illness that you can treat with NyQuil and/or DayQuil, by all means do so! If, however, you have a much more severe injury—and/or if you have a much more severe illness—you go see a medical doctor, or you go to an urgent care clinic, or you go to the emergency room, so that you can heal!
And our culture's beliefs regarding therapeutic (therapy) treatment of psychological (mental health) issues should basically be the same kind of thinking: So, if you are just feeling "a little down in the dumps," so to speak, you can simply talk to a family member, or a friend, or chat online with someone on a social networking site, and that takes care of the issue! If, however, you have much more severe psychological issues such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or much more severe psychological illnesses, such as clinical depression, or suicidal thoughts, you go see a licensed therapist—like a Licensed Professional Counselor, or a Psychologist (which is a licensed therapist with a graduate degree in psychology), or a Psychiatrist (which is a licensed therapist with a graduate degree in psychology who is also a medical doctor)—or you call a crisis helpline, such as the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline (dial 988 on your telephone), so that you can heal! –Paul Whiting (written September 10th, 2022, revised October 22nd, 2023 and revised June 15th, 2024)
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My Writing Notes:
The reason that I wrote this poem can be summed up with the following statement: "The Strength To Carry On Is The Strength Of God."
This poem is dedicated to all of Our Wounded Warriors who deserve to be treated with the utmost respect! And for that reason, I donate monthly to the Wounded Warrior Project, the USO (United Service Organizations), the IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America), the IVAW (Iraq Veterans Against the War) and Team Rubicon in order to show my support for those who serve their country.**
By the way, I originally wrote this poem under the misspelled title "The Wounded Worrier," rather than "The Wounded Warrior"; and I republished this poem, with the correct title, on February 23rd, since that is the month and day that the Wounded Warrior Project was registered for incorporation in 2005.
And this poem was also published on my "Small All White in the Forest" blog (please see the hyperlink below for the blog), since I feel that the message in this poem applies to the message that I am trying to convey through "Small All White in the Forest."
This poem was written in Portland, Oregon.
-Paulee
https://smallallwhiteintheforest.blogspot.com
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**June 2016 Update, Written On October 3rd, 2021: I was editing this post (on October 3rd, 2021), and I realized that, as of June 2016, I stopped donating on a monthly basis to the Wounded Warrior Project, the USO (United Service Organizations), the IAVA (Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America), the IVAW (Iraq Veterans Against the War) and Team Rubicon; although, I did donate to them on a monthly basis for years, because I felt that these were the Veterans organizations that were the most important for me to support at that time...
...But I realized in June 2016 that I couldn't really afford to donate to them on a monthly basis, so I wrote to the above-mentioned Veterans organizations and cancelled my monthly donations. I realize now that I also have never donated "on an as-need basis only," as I had mentioned in my cancellation letter—a copy of which is below. So, I am thinking of a way that I can support our Veterans in a way that is sustainable for me, which may be donating once to them per year, such as on Veterans Day!
However, according to Charity Navigator, there are "over 40,000 American charities with military-related missions" and the American people "donate more than $2.5 billion annually" to these organizations. So, it's a lot to think about!
And I have changed the way that I am an "Activist" (which is why I was donating to these organizations for Veterans on a monthly basis), so I have stopped spending money on donations to charities, since I can't really afford to do so, given that I am on SSDI (Social Security Disability Insurance). And now, I am focused on being an "Activist" by being a more "Conscious Consumer," as well as paying for monthly subscriptions to news organizations that I can afford, given my monthly budget, in order to stay a better informed citizen and a better informed voter...
...However, I FEEL GUILTY about not donating to help our Veterans in some way, at least once per year! Therefore, I am going to consider making a once-per-year donation (like on Veterans Day) to the Veterans organizations, so that I feel like I am doing something to help our Veterans. And I will provide an update on those donations at that time.
Anyway, here is the letter that I sent in June 2016:
To Whom It May Concern,
I have been donating monthly to [charity's name]. And my credit card information has recently changed for my donation, but I have decided to cancel my monthly donation and—instead of donating on a per month basis—I am planning to donate to [charity's name] occasionally.
You see, I am changing the way that I support organizations that support United States military personnel, such as [charity's name], in order to save money, since I am on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and I am donating on an as-needed basis only.
Therefore, please cancel my monthly donation and also please add me to your emailing list and/or mailing list in order to allow me to donate to [charity's name] as often as I can possibly do so.
Yours very truly,
Paul Whiting
Poet, Artist and Philosopher
Portland, Oregon
–Paul Whiting (written October 3rd, 2021 and revised March 25th, 2022 and revised June 15th, 2022)
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November 11th, 2021 Update, Written Sometime After Midnight: I signed up on Charity Navigator yesterday, November 10th, 2021, to make donations for holidays, special occasions, or current issues, to highly-rated charities—including with the intention of making donations for Veterans Day to several highly-rated veterans' charities. However, I started having problems with being able to process the donations! Although, I used a smartphone, so that could be the issue. Anyway, I did attempt to donate to veterans' organizations for Veterans Day, but it's not going to work right now. So, I am going to hold off on donating until I can donate through a personal computer, since I may be having issues donating through my smartphone, if that is what was causing me to not be able to donate... –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022, revised March 21st, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 11th, 2021 Update, Written Just After 9:00 AM: Success! I tried again later on in the day to donate to veterans' charities for Veterans Day on Charity Navigator and it worked! Plus, I also included a donation to Charity Navigator, because they are a charity too. And I really appreciate being able to utilize Charity Navigator's charity rating system in order to assess which charities receive their 'give with confidence' rating. I also appreciate being able to donate to multiple charities at the same time—all in one convenient transaction, rather than having to process individual donations on each charity's website—which makes supporting veterans' organizations via Charity Navigator that much more worthwhile! –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised June 18th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022, revised March 21st, 2023 and revised January 9th, 2024)
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November 11th, 2021 Update—Summary: I signed up on Charity Navigator yesterday, November 10th, 2021, to make donations for holidays, special occasions, or current issues, to highly-rated charities—including with the intention of making donations for Veterans Day to several highly-rated veterans' charities. However, I started having problems with being able to process the donations! ... But, I tried again later on in the day to donate to veterans' charities for Veterans Day on Charity Navigator and it worked! Plus, I also included a donation to Charity Navigator, because they are a charity too. –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2021, revised June 15th, 2022, revised June 18th, 2022, revised November 11th, 2022 and revised March 21st, 2023)
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The 'updates' below are ones that I have originally written on my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," as well as my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was, Part 2" both of which are located on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog, with regard to the veterans' organization Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) that I have included in this blog post in order to show my support for our U.S. Veterans.
The exception to these 'updates' are the ones that I have written about WWP for Memorial Day. And those updates can be found on my blog post titled, "A Memorable Memorial Day," which is located on both of my "Small All White in the Forest" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs.
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September 6th, 2023 Update: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, September 6th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "⋆ Connect ⋆ Serve ⋆ Empower ⋆", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
Dear Mr. Whiting,
When [name redacted] looks back on his service to our nation, he remembers the powerful bond that formed with his fellow U.S. Marines.
"The best part was the camaraderie and the love we had for each other."
I know how [name redacted] feels. I served this nation for three decades, and I felt a bond with the men and women I commanded — and served beside. We were connected by blood, sweat, and service.
In fact, one of my great honors was presenting medals and other commendations to them for service above and beyond the call of duty. It was always a moment of pride!
Today, I hope YOU will take great pride in receiving this exclusive 20 Year Supporter Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) lapel pin. For two decades now, you have shared a bond with our nation's wounded warriors, and I want you to have this lapel pin in recognition of your exceptional commitment.
Please wear it on Veterans Day and other patriotic holidays. When people ask you about it, tell them you got it for helping severely injured veterans transform their lives over the last 20 years!
Paul, we had your 20 Year Supporter lapel pin minted for our most loyal, long-term donors like you. Naturally, I want to make sure your pin has reached you safely ...
That's why I'm asking you to return your Delivery Confirmation Form to me so I'll know your new pin has arrived at your Portland address.
When you reply, please also send your Veterans Day gift of $15, $18, $21, or more to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope again.
You see, while [name redacted] looks back on his service with pride, he also remembers the devastating pain and loss he experienced.
In 2006, he lost two of his fellow Marines and an interpreter to a roadside bomb. The loss weighed on him. As their platoon sergeant, he felt guilty, sad, and angry.
His survivor's guilt and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) led [name redacted] on a downward spiral. For more than a decade, he abused drugs and alcohol to try to case his pain. He even considered suicide.
Thank goodness you were there for [name redacted] when he needed help. By supporting WWP, you helped ensure that our crucial support was there for him when he needed it most.
You helped him find community. You helped him secure the benefits he'd earned. You supported him through his recovery, and helped him find a sense of purpose again — helping other wounded warriors get the help they need. "I know this is what I'm supposed to be doing." he says with certainty. He adds:
"I know without a doubt I would not be here today if it were not for WWP."
Those are powerful words. To me, they speak to Philip's strength — and also to your impact.
You see, you helped make his story possible. And I'm so very grateful for your continued commitment.
Veterans Day is almost here. I'm asking for your strongest possible financial support now so we can respond to the urgent needs so many heroes are facing — as they cope with traumatic brain injuries (TBI), PTSD, and other severe wounds of war.
Please send a Veterans Day gift today. But don't stop there! Please also show a veteran you care by signing the enclosed Veterans Day card.
Include it along with your Delivery Confirmation Form, and your donation, to let me know your lapel pin has reached you. Thank you for your generous support and enduring partnership. Don't forget to wear your WWP lapel pin proudly as a symbol of your commitment and impact!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. Veterans Day is coming soon. The time is now to honor heroes like [name redacted] and support other wounded warriors who urgently need your help. Please send your most generous gift today!
P.P.S. I want you to note one detail about [name redacted's] story. Eleven years went by between the roadside bomb that killed his buddies and the day he got help from WWP. Veterans, even those whose service ended years ago, are still coming forward for help, and we must be there for them. That's why your enduring partnership means so much. Our critical mission began 20 years ago, and because we are still needed it continues today thanks to partners like you. Thank you!
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to "send [my] Veterans Day gift of [$7] ... to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope again." Plus, I also "show[ed] a veteran [I] care by signing the enclosed Veterans Day card," which I plan to mail back to WWP when I "return [my] Delivery Confirmation Form" within the next few days. –Paul Whiting (written September 6th, 2023, revised September 21st, 2023 and revised November 12th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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October 24th, 2023 Update No. 7 [My Writing About How I Have Changed The Way That I Label My Blog Posts 'Updates' For Any Additional 'Updates' That I Write, After The First 'Update,' By Using A Simple Numbering System, Which Starts With The First 'Update' (Originally From My Blog Post Titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," Which Is On My "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" Blog)]:
I have changed the way I label the blog post 'updates' that I write because I oftentimes write more than one 'update' per day!
And in the past, I have labeled the second, third, fourth and fifth 'update' with the following extensions—on the days that I write more than 'update'—to differentiate any additional 'updates' from the first one, as follows:
[1st] Month Day, Year Update
[2nd] Month Day, Year Update—Continued
[3rd] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further
[4th] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further Some More
[5th] Month Day, Year Update—Continued Further Some More Than Before
However today, October 24th, 2023, I actually had more than five 'updates' to write, so I decided to change how I differentiate any additional 'updates,' from the first 'update,' by using a simple numbering system, which actually starts with the first 'update' that I write, as follows:
Month Day, Year Update No. 1
Month Day, Year Update No. 2
Month Day, Year Update No. 3
Month Day, Year Update No. 4
Month Day, Year Update No. 5
Month Day, Year Update No. 6
Month Day, Year Update No. 7
Therefore, that is why this 'update' is the seventh one for today! –Paul Whiting (written October 24th, 2023 and revised October 28th, 2023)
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November 11th, 2023 Update No. 2—Which Also Discusses October 26th, 2023 (Originally From My Blog Post Titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," Which Is On My "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" Blog): I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) sixteen days ago on October 26th, 2023, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "PLEASE SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR AMERICA'S INJURED HEROES!", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Paul, Use your NEW patriotic stickers to show your support for America's heroes on Veterans Day!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
Military heroes show their exceptional courage, character, and bravery on the battlefield as they fight to keep us safe and free.
You show you honor them by the actions you take. You've helped so many heroes! And I'm hoping you'll demonstrate your support once again today.
Veterans Day is coming soon. It's so important to let American heroes — including our brave wounded warriors — know that their service has not been forgotten.
Please sign and send back the thank-you card I'm enclosing. and I'll make sure your gratitude and warm wishes are shared with an injured veteran.
Your gratitude could reach a hero like [name redacted], who served our country with honor for 22 years!
We can't let wounded warriors like [name redacted] feel forgotten on Veterans Day. We also must make sure they continue to get the critical help and support they need.
So, as you send back your signed card today, please also include your generous gift of $15, $18, or even $21 to help more heroes in our 2023 Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive.
Paul, your support for Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) means warriors and their families never pay a penny for our programs. After all, they paid their dues on the battlefield!
Thanks to you, WWP is fighting just as hard for our American herons as they fought for us. Just ask [name redacted]...
[Name redacted] struggled in school. But that's just because he hadn't found his true purpose yet! Once he graduated, he went right into the U.S. Army, and that's when [name redacted] began to excel.
Soon, he was discovering leadership qualities and a deep sense of pride. "I became proud of not just being in the Army, but being an American."
[Name redacted] was an excellent soldier. He risked his life for his country. But his service in Iraq took a toll on him. He was targeted in an improvised explosive device (IED) attack and developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Soon, it began to take over his life.
His sense of pride turned to fear and distrust. His marriage fell apart, and he moved back in with his parents. For the longest time, [name redacted] wouldn't even leave the house unless he was carrying a gun.
PTSD affects different veterans in different ways. But what [name redacted] experienced is all too common.
That kind of hypervigilance, worrying the enemy is around every corner, can make it hard to readjust to civilian life ... hard to be a parent ... and even hard to get through the day.
[Name redacted] was in a dark place. But in his darkest moment, he got the help he needed. It came from WWP and good people like you. [Name redacted] credits WWP with saving his life!
He says, "WWP helped me realize that there's always going to be someone there. Don't ever think that you're alone."
Our wounded warriors aren't alone. You're there for them! And I hope you will continue to be because your support is urgently needed now!
That's why I urge you to send the most generous Veterans Day gift you can today.
Help our heroes get the urgent help they need to face all the challenges before them. When they're ready to start their next mission, we stand ready to serve!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
[Military rank and status redacted]
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. This Veterans Day, please honor Sean and all the military heroes in your community in every way you can. Write your words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card and send it back to me. Use the WWP patriotic stickers as another way of showing your support. And make sure injured veterans get the crucial support they need now by donating to WWP today. Thank you.
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2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors
To donate online, go to supportwwp.org
[✓] YES, I received my stickers, and I'll help wounded warriors! To show our nation's injured veterans, like Sean, they can count on me, I'm unclosing my tax-deductible Veterans Day gift of:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
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Straight from the heart...
"To the donors of Wounded Warrior Project, the only thing I can say is, "Thank you. You've changed my life."
— [Name redacted] Wounded Warrior
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to show my support for the WWP Portland-Area Veterans Day Fund Drive! Plus, I also wrote "words of gratitude on the enclosed thank-you card," which I plan to mail back to WWP when I return my "2023 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors" delivery confirmation form within the next few days. –Paul Whiting (written November 11th, 2023, revised November 12th, 2023 and revised December 28th, 2023)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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December 28th, 2023 Update No. 6 (Originally From My Blog Post Titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," Which Is On My "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" Blog): I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, December 28th, 2023, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Warriors like [name redacted] are counting on you for another year of support!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
[Name redacted] didn't plan to be a soldier. But something changed on 9/11 when our nation was attacked. "I knew I had to join the fight," he says.
He joined the U.S. Army and was deployed to Iraq. One day, he volunteered to fill in for a buddy who was feeling sick — and [name redacted] life was changed forever.
The convoy [name redacted] was riding in hit an Improvised explosive device (IED). And [name redacted] suffered catastrophic injuries.
Both [name redacted's] legs had to be amputated. And his invisible wounds were just as devastating. Shane experienced a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that affected his ability to read, write, and speak.
Here at Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP), we've made a promise to be there for warriors like [name redacted]. Not just while they're in the hospital, but year after year for as long as it takes!
Your annual support helps keep that promise. You're someone veterans con count on! That's why I recently sent you your 2024 WWP Member Card, and it's why I'm enclosing your custom WWP patch today — to thank you in advance for another year of strong support.
Please renew the annual commitment you've made by sending your gift of $15, $18, or even $21. Thank you!
Paul, I need to know your 2024 WWP Member Card has reached you because it's personalized with your name. And I urgently need to confirm that you will be standing by our warriors for another year.
Because what would heroes like [name redacted] do without people like you?
As you'll remember from my last letter, [name redacted's] injuries were so severe that he could no longer live independently. His mother, [name redacted], who had flown across the world to be by [name redacted's] side after the attack, became his full-time caregiver.
Being a caregiver for a veteran is a gesture of love. But that doesn't mean it's easy. Both veterans and their caregivers need our support!
And they both got it thanks to the WWP Independence Program. This program, which you help to fund through your annual giving, has allowed [name redacted] to recover more of his independence ... and gave [name redacted] time to meet her own needs.
[Name redacted's] life has changed in so many ways. He even met a wonderful, caring woman at a WWP event, got married, and had a son. Now his wife, [name redacted], is his caregiver, and [his mother's name redacted] is a powerful advocate for injured veterans. They're all in, as a fumily, for wounded warriors!
And so are you. You've shown that through your inspiring annual commitment. And [name redacted] is very grateful for all you've done. Today he says:
"You've helped me do things for myself and regain some of my independence."
You've been there for [name redacted] as he's healed. And I know you'll continue to be there for him.
In fact, if you've already responded to my previous letter with your annual renewal gift, thank you. Our letters have probably crossed in the mail. But if you haven't yet renewed, I urge you to do so right away.
Please stand with our veterans and their families for another year of hope. healing, and impact. Thank you!
Gratefully,
[Title redacted]
[Military rank and status redacted]
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. Carry the card. Wear the special WWP patch I'm enclosing. And return your 2024 Member Confirmation Reply to me with the most generous renewal gift you're able to send. Thank you for your enduring commitment to our heroes!
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★ ★ ★ 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY ★ ★ ★
[✓] YES, my 2024 Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) Member Card arrived! I'm proud to renew my annual membership today and help more brave heroes like [name redacted] fight to rebuild their lives with my donation of:
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[ ] $15
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $14.00*
To donate online, go to: supportwwp.org/wwp
Please maks checks payable to Wounded Warrior Project. For credit card gifts, please see reverse.
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in order to complete the 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY! –Paul Whiting (written from December 28th, 2023 to December 29th, 2023)
*P.S.: The reason that I donated $14.00—rather than $7.00 like I usually do for donation mailers that I receive through the regular mail—is because I donated for the mailer above that I received today, December 28th, 2023, as well as for the mailer that I received on December 11th, 2023, which contained the WWP 2024 Member Card that I confirmed having received through the 2024 MEMBER CONFIRMATION REPLY, as mentioned above.
P.P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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February 27th, 2024 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses February 26th, 2024: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) yesterday, February 26th, 2024, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Thank you for giving again today — because America's wounded warriors need you!
Dear Caring Friend,
It will happen about 50 times today. And it will happen about 50 more times tomorrow.
Severely injured veterans and their family members will contact us here at Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) — desperate for help.
Some veterans will have recently returned from the battlefield. Others will be coming to us after years of pain, darkness, and uncertainty.
I know. I'm a U.S. Navy veteran, and it took me more than five years to finally come forward and get the help I needed.
During that time, I self-medicated with alcohol and drug use ... and even tried to take my own life.
I honestly don't know what might have happened if I hadn't found WWP. Thank goodness I did. You were there for me. And now, another hero needs your help!
Your annual support can change lives and even save lives. Please stand by America's heroes for another year of caring and support!
Renew your annual commitment today to help more American heroes heal in mind, body, and soul.
I nearly lost my life fighting for the country I love. In Iraq, my whole battalion was getting blasted left and right.
I survived the attacks, but the shock waves from multiple explosions left me with a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that requires me to wear dark glasses every time I go outside.
I also live with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). And trust me, that's the worst injury of all.
I'd rather have a TBI than post-traumatic stress. But the reality is, I have both.
My journey of healing began when I first connected to WWP. You helped me get involved in sports like running and cycling to build my strength and confidence again, and you helped me connect with a community of my fellow veterans.
Most of all, you helped me find my new purpose — helping other wounded veterans, including by serving as a Peer Support Group leader for WWP.
I'm able to reach out to people and make a difference in their lives ... I can pinpoint every single warrior I've encountered who is now blessed and has a better life because of Wounded Warrior Project.
That's the impact of your annual support for WWP. With your help, WWP is proving that veterans with physical, emotional, and psychological wounds of war can succeed again — as parents, students, employees, and valuable members of our communities.
We're doing it for heroes who have severe burns, missing limbs, and other war wounds you can see ... and we're doing it for heroes whose wounds are invisible, but who need our help just as urgently.
America is blessed with amazing men and women who risk their lives every day to keep us strong and free. We can never forget what our heroes have done for us — not in 2024, not ever.
Thank you for being there for me. And thank you in advance for renewing your annual commitment so WWP can be there for the next warrior who needs our help!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
Proud Wounded Warrior
P.S. Along with your set of labels, which I'm sending to thank you for your renewed annual support, I'm also enclosing a thank-you card that I hope you'll sign and return to let another wounded warrior know you honor and appreciate his or her service. Be there for them, like you were for me. When you send it back, please also include your most generous 2024 renewal gift to help more veterans heal, thrive, and succeed again.
---------------------------------------------
★ MY SPECIAL GIFT TO HELP AMERICA'S WOUNDED WARRIORS ★
Thank you for my personalized address labels and for letting me know how I'm helping wounded warriors succeed again. To help more heroes battle back from injuries, I'm enclosing my gift of:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $7.21
To donate online, go to supportwwp.org/wwp
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Every gift makes an impact!
Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, February 27th, 2024, in order to renew my annual commitment through MY SPECIAL GIFT TO HELP AMERICA'S WOUNDED WARRIORS! Plus, I signed the enclosed "thank-you card...to let another wounded warrior know [I] honor and appreciate his or her service." And I am planning to mail the thank-you card as soon as I get a chance to drop off the return envelope at my local post office. –Paul Whiting (written February 27th, 2024 and revised September 22nd, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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July 4th, 2024 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses June 10th, 2024: Happy Independence Day, everyone!
I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) twenty four days ago on June 10th, 2024, which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Please display your free car magnet — on Independence Day and every day — to show your support for wounded warriors!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
I was honored to fight for my country for nearly 30 years.
I joined the U.S. Army a year after finishing high school, and I was proud to do everything I could to defend our nation.
But parts of my service didn't turn out quite like I expected. It's a story of pain, of all that I endured during my service and after.
But it's also a story of strength. I'm still fighting and I'm winning.
And one big reason I'm on a path of healing today is the support I've received from Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) thanks to generous people like you. I truly appreciate your commitment!
And I want you to know this. After veterans like me return from our service in places like Iraq and Afghanistan, we are looking for a sign. A sign of hope.
We need to know our service is respected. We need to know our sacrifice has not been forgotten. Because that would be the most terrible injury of all.
And we really need to know there are grateful Americans out there, like you, who we can turn to for urgent help as we adjust to life with war injuries.
That's why I'm enclosing your free 2024 car magnet today. I'm hoping you'll display it proudly in the weeks leading up to Independence Day as a symbol of your respect for wounded warriors and your lasting commitment. For veterans like me, it's a sign of hope!
Please provide more of the critical help and hope that are needed now by, making your most generous Independence Day gift of $15, $18, or even $21 today. Thank you!
Be extra generous, if you can, to help address the urgent need for care that so many brave veterans are currently facing now. You can even sign and return the enclosed card, with your gift, to show your sincere appreciation to a wounded veteran!
I felt proud to be given the responsibility to serve my country, but I also experienced trauma while serving.
I fought bravely, trying to be a good soldier, bottling up my pain and emotions despite all the turmoil it was causing me.
But it got to be too much. It hit all at once in 2012 during my deployment in Afghanistan. The memories of the death and suffering I saw - all this stuff came crashing down. I couldn't take it anymore. I felt like I was in quicksand.
Finally, I was diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe depression, and anxiety. WWP was there for me. The sessions with my WWP Talk counselor gave me a glimmer of hope. I just had to keep holding onto the lifeline he had thrown to me.
Eventually, WWP got me out of the quicksand and to a place where I could go on with my life. Knowing that somebody had my back — that I was supported and somebody cared — that's why I'm still here.
And you're still here, too. You'll never stop honoring the women and men who have fought for our country and our freedom. Thank you!
Today, with Independence Day on the way, please show your patriotic spirit and compassion once again by displaying your car magnet and sending your gift to WWP.
Independence Day is a day to celebrate our freedom. But it's also a day to remember that freedom isn't free.
Every woman and man who has proudly worn the uniform of the U.S. military has sacrificed for it. We have a responsibility to serve our injured veterans!
It's truly one of the most important times to show your support for America's wounded warriors. I'd be so grateful if you'd give today. Thank you!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
Wounded Warrior
P.S. Independence Day is coming soon, and your new car magnet is the perfect way to show veterans and service members you honor their service — not just one day, but every day of the year! Today, please make your most generous donation to help more wounded warriors. When you do, be sure to sign and return the enclosed thank-you card for an injured veteran. Thank you for sending your gift!
"QR code message": Scan here to give: https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
---------------------------------------------
★ MY INDEPENDENCE DAY GIFT TO HELP AMERICA'S HEROES ★
[✓] YES, I received my patriotic car magnet to honor our wounded heroes. To help more heroes regain their independence, I'm enclosing a special contribution of:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18 ← Can you spare this much?
[ ] $21
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
To donate online, go to supportwwp.org/wwp:
https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
[ ] My check is enclosed and made out to Wounded Warrior Project.
[ ] Please charge my credit card.
(Please complete form on reverse.)
Every gift makes a positive impact!
Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, July 4th, 2024, in order to show my appreciation for the free 2024 car magnet! Plus, I signed "the enclosed thank-you card ... to show [my] sincere appreciation to a wounded veteran!" And I am planning to mail the thank-you card as soon as I get a chance to drop off the return envelope at my local post office. –Paul Whiting (written July 4th, 2024 and revised September 22nd, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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August 7th, 2024 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses July 22nd, 2024: Purple Heart Day is today, August 7th, 2024, since Purple Heart Day is yearly (annually) on August 7th.
And I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) sixteen days ago on July 22nd, 2024, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "YES! That's a REAL STAMP!
What connects it to someone whose life was changed by your support?", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Paul, use this real first-class postage stamp to help an injured veteran today. I know how much your support means!
Dear Mr. Whiting,
That's a real first-class stamp, all right. But it's not just any stamp ...
You see, you're receiving this stamp to thank you for being one of the leading supporters of Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP). Your generosity means so much to injured veterans like me!
And while there may be some people out there who would keep this stamp for themselves. I'm pretty sure you won't do that.
That's because you recognize that the most powerful way you can use this stamp is to help the wounded veterans who have served and sacrificed for our nation — and who urgently need you right now!
Paul, I'm trusting you to place your stamp firmly on the return envelope I'm enclosing, and mail back your gift to support the Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) 2024 Portland-Area Fund Drive. You can be one of the first from your community to help!
Your gift of $15, $18, or even $21 will help American heroes battle their way back to health and healing.
As you put your first-class stamp to the best possible use by sending your gift today, please also sign and return the thank-you card I'm enclosing. You'll definitely brighten the spirits of another wounded warrior!
I know. You see, while Americans like me are proud to serve, we often face serious challenges overcoming our battlefield injuries, and adjusting to civilian life when our service is done.
It really means a lot to us to know that you care, and that you give so generously to help.
I'm a U.S. Marine veteran who was honored to fight for America on many fronts, including in Iraq. But I can tell you that the stress I endured took a terrible toll on my soul and spirit.
After a helicopter I was flying in came under fire, I had trouble sleeping. I developed post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and I've experienced anxiety and terrifying nightmares.
I even considered suicide. I wanted help, but no one seemed to want to help me.
But you were there to help me when I needed you. From the very first WWP event I attended, I felt understanding and acceptance.
No one judged me. They validated me. It was empowering, and it was a real turning point for me.
Wounded Warrior Project gave me a foundation to build upon as I attempted to put the pieces of my life back together.
Today I have a business to run, a family to support me, and a passion for helping others. Thanks for being there for me when I needed you most!
Now, I'm hoping you'll give again so WWP can support the next wounded warrior who needs support. There are so many more injured veterans who need your help now!
I'm confident you'll use the enclosed stamp to support our Annual Fund Drive now ... while the need is so urgent.
You'll show our nation's wounded warriors how much you care, and you'll make a meaningful and lasting difference in the lives of our injured military heroes.
Thank you in advance for responding generously today. And please remember to sign and return your thank you card to bring cheer to one of America's heroes!
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
Wounded Warrior
P.S. The first-class postage stamp that you're receiving today is a free gift for you. But freedom isn't free. It's been won through the blood, service, and sacrifice of veterans like me. Thank you for returning your best donation to help another wounded warrior now!
"QR code message": Scan to give. https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
---------------------------------------------
2024 Portland-Area
Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT
Thank you!
[✓] YES! [name redacted], I will help American heroes like you overcome their struggles and fulfill their dreams. Here is my gift to help wounded veterans:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18 ← Can you spare this much?
[ ] $21
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
To make a donation online, go to supportwwp.org/wwp https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org
[ ] My check is enclosed and made out to Wounded Warrior Project.
[ ] Please charge my credit card.
(Please complete form on reverse.)
Every gift makes a difference!
Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted] ★ [City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, August 7th, 2024, in order to show my support for the 2024 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors. Plus, I signed "the thank-you card ... to bring cheer to one of America's heroes!" And I am planning to mail the thank-you card as soon as I get a chance to drop off the return envelope at my local post office. –Paul Whiting (written August 7th, 2024 and revised September 22nd, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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September 11th, 2024 Update No. 1: In remembrance of September 11th, 2001, I made a donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) after I saw an advertisement from WWP "to honor the warriors who stepped up when the towers fell" in the form of a YouTube video that I watched recently.
So, I opened the donation page to the Wounded Warrior Project advertisement from YouTube and I saved it for my annual September 11th donations. Here is the relevant text from said WWP donation webpage, with a hyperlink below:
Your gift DOUBLES to honor the warriors who stepped up when the towers fell.
This 9/11, honor the American heroes who decided to fight for our freedom after the attacks on our nation. While we can never repay them for their extraordinary sacrifices, we can show our gratitude by giving them the crucial support they need.
And thanks to the Blue Angels Foundation, every dollar you donate will be MATCHED up to $100,000 in support of our Warrior Care Network®. Your gift will provide FREE, life-changing programs and services to wounded warriors who still need your help.
Honor their service and sacrifice today with a gift that DOUBLES!
$50 becomes $100
$75 becomes $150
$100 becomes $200
[Imbedded video that I saw on YouTube.]
Choose A Gift
[✓] One-Time Gift
[ ] Monthly Gift ← You'll make the most impact for our wounded warriors when you support them with a monthly gift. As a monthly donor of $19 or more, you will receive a Wounded Warrior Project® fleece blanket.
[ ] $250
[ ] $150
[ ] $100
[ ] $75
[ ] $50
[✓] Your Best Gift $5.00
Your Information
First Name: Paul
Last Name: Whiting
Address Line 1: [redacted]
Address Line 2: [redacted]
Country: [redacted]
ZIP Code: [redacted]
City: [redacted]
State: [redacted]
Phone Number: [redacted]
Email Address: [redacted]
[✓] Yes, I would like to receive communications from WWP with updates on warriors and programs.
Donate $5.00
https://support.woundedwarriorproject.org/Default.aspx?tsid=11585&ovr_acv_id=19751&campaignSource=ONLINE&source=BS24026GAADSRMA&gclid=CjwKCAjw_4S3BhAAEiwA_64YhiPi4p01TeZ5Ljh0b74_k5Whg2jbl-7J955bXwrPfdFRnlIwxi3anxoCGlgQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds
Thus, I donated to Wounded Warrior Project today in order to "honor the American heroes who decided to fight for our freedom after the attacks on our nation," because "while we can never repay them for their extraordinary sacrifices, we can show our gratitude by giving them the crucial support they need." –Paul Whiting (September 11th, 2024)
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September 22nd, 2024 Update No. 1, Which Also Discusses September 16th, 2024: I received a mailer from Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) six days ago on September 16th, 2024, with a 'front teaser message' on the envelope that read, "SOME WOUNDS ARE HARD TO SEE ... Suicide Awareness September 2024", which stated the following:
[I used to hand-type the text of the documents from these types of mailers on my smartphone; however, it takes a lot of time and energy in order to hand-type these kinds of documents: so, instead, I scanned and copied the documents using Google Lens! Then, I edited the copy of said documents to include all of the italicizing, bolding and/or underscoring where applicable.]
WOUNDED WARRIOR PROJECT ★ 20 YEARS
Paul, do you know the importance of these teal and purple stickers that I'm enclosing for you? Veteran [name redacted] does . . .
Dear Mr. Whiting,
"Wounded Warrior Project saved my life."
That's US. Army veteran [name redacted], talking about the life-changing help he has received from Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) — thanks to YOU.
Finding a supportive community is so important in helping wounded warriors overcome their injuries and thrive in our communities as parents, spouses, workers, and business owners.
But tragedy can result when injured veterans don't get the help they need. September is National Suicide Awareness Month, and we must raise awareness about the hundreds of veterans who take their own lives each month.
[Name redacted] was nearly one of them. There were days when his traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) were more than he could bear.
"I was trying to deal with all this trauma, all at once, all by myself," [name redacted] remembers. "Not asking for somebody's help almost cost me my life."
Thankfully, there is a powerful community giving wounded heroes the caring and compassionate support they need, when they need it most. And you're a big part of it.
Paul, the teal and purple stickers I'm enclosing for you today are to help raise awareness about suicide — to help prevent another tragic loss of life.
In addition, Veterans Day is coming, and that's a time when your life-changing support for our wounded warriors really means the most.
Please send your Veterans Day gift of $15, $18, $21, or more to help another warrior like [name redacted] heal and find hope!
As you know, many veterans have injuries you can see, like missing limbs and severe burns. But some also have invisible wounds that can be just as devastating . . .
[Name redacted] served as a combat medic. For months, he treated injured soldiers on a daily basis.
Sniper fire, mortars, and blasts from improvised explosive devices (IED) were a daily occurrence. It takes a terrible emotional toll. [Name redacted] recalls, "I cradled a warrior in my arms as he died. You grow up fast."
It took [name redacted] attempting to end his life, and the urging of his wife, for [name redacted] to seek out the help he urgently needed. Thank goodness he did.
He went to a WWP Project Odyssey event, and discovered camaraderie and support programs that he didn't know existed.
That was the day his journey of healing began. Since then, he's attended many other WWP events. He's sharing his story now in the hope that other wounded warriors will read it and know that help is available . . . thanks to partners like you.
"Wounded Warrior Project saved my life. I appreciate every day that I wake up, because a lot of men and women didn't get that extra day."
I often tell you that your support for WWP can have a life-changing impact. But as [name redacted's] story reminds us, your gifts can even have a
life-saving impact.
Your support is needed again today. Veterans Day is almost here, and the need for our free programs and services for wounded warriors is increasing. More heroes contact us for help every single day!
We must help warriors learn to
live their best lives despite their invisible injuries.
And we must prevent the further loss of life that can happen when invisible injuries go untreated, or when warriors don't know where to turn for help.
Please send your Veterans Day gift to help more wounded warriors find hope, purpose, and healing.
Thank you, once again, for being part of our family of caring supporters.
With gratitude,
[Name redacted]
Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
[Title redacted], Wounded Warrior Project
P.S. Veterans Day is coming soon. The time is now to honor wounded heroes like [name redacted] and support other wounded warriors who urgently need your help.
Please sign the enclosed Veterans Day card for a wounded hero and return it with your most generous gift today. And please display your teal and purple stickers all during National Suicide Awareness Month to help others learn about our work, and about your inspiring commitment to our heroes!
---------------------------------------------
Text of the enclosed Veterans Day card
Outside of the card:
Thank You
Inside of the card:
Please know that the gift you've given me
— my freedom —
is the most cherished gift of all.
I will never forget what you've done
for me and for our country. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Paul Whiting
Signed on 09/22/2024
---------------------------------------------
2024 Portland-Area
Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors
To donate online, go to
supportwwp.org/wwp
[✓]
YES, I will use my free stickers to show my support for wounded warriors. To help more American heroes battle back from wartime wounds, I'm making my tax-deductible gift of:
[ ] $15
[ ] $18
[ ] $21
[ ] $24
[✓] My best gift of $7.00
[ ] My check is enclosed and made out to Wounded Warrior Project.
[ ] Please charge my credit card.
(Please complete form on reverse.)
Every gift makes a difference!
Your gift is tax deductible as allowed by law.
Mr. Paul Whiting
[Street Address and Apt. No. redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
Wounded Warrior Project
Donor Care Center
[Address redacted]
[City, State and ZIP Code redacted]
And so, I made a one-time donation to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) today, September 22nd, 2024, in order to show my support for the 2024 Portland-Area Fund Drive for Wounded Warriors. Also, I displayed my "teal and purple stickers ... during National Suicide Awareness Month to help others learn about [WWP's] work, and about [my] inspiring commitment to our heroes!" Plus, I signed "the enclosed Veterans Day card for a wounded hero." And I am planning to mail the Veterans Day card as soon as I get a chance to drop off the return envelope at my local post office. –Paul Whiting (September 22nd, 2024)
P.S.: Just so you know, "I have changed the way that I make donations to political, progressive and charitable organizations each month ... due to the fact that I have been spending a considerable percentage of my monthly income on all of these donations." (The reader should know that I am HIV-positive with full-blown AIDS. And I am on Social Security Disability Insurance, or SSDI, so my income is quite limited.) Therefore, "I am reducing how much I donate for the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond) to take action." Thus, I will still be responding to some of the regular mail requests that I receive (to which I choose to respond), which are requesting me to take action, but I am reducing the amount that I donate to organizations from which I receive mailers. Please see my 'August 19th, 2023 Update' from my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog:
https://poetartistandphilosopher.blogspot.com/2016/11/i-am-no-longer-being-activist.html
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November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1 [My Writing About No Longer Being An 'Online Activist' In Any Way, Shape Or Form]: Due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in any way, shape or form, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, and no longer sending letters to my Representative and Senators in Congress, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes. Full stop! I am also unsubscribing from any of the emails that I used to receive from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations. In fact, I am even cancelling all of my monthly political donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating organizations, as well as to the USO (United Service Organizations), in addition to cancelling all of my monthly news organization subscriptions, or news organization donations, because I am absolutely terrified of this second Trump administration. And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know it will be over! So, I am choosing to not engage in any 'activism' whatsoever—plus, I am not even sure that I will be exercising my 'civic duty' by voting in any upcoming elections because, as a (formerly) donating and a (potentially former) voting Democrat, I totally fear the retribution of President Donald J. Trump. Full stop!
P.S.: It's July 31st, 2025, and I feel like I need to provide an addendum (that is, "an item of additional material added at the end of a book or document, typically in order to correct, clarify, or supplement something") to this November 6th, 2024 'update!'
You see, a couple of days ago, on July 29th, 2025, I copied the text of this update to use as my reason for unsubscribing from a particular political email that I received that same day!
And so, I actually bothered to read this update—in order to verify that it made sense for me to use as a response to the request on this political email's unsubscribe page which stated, "Please tell us why you are leaving"—during which I realized there was a typo (that is, 'a typographical error') in the text of the update, as I have highlighted below, with the correction in brackets:
"And I fully expect that democracy in America as we know [it] will be over!"
Thus, I accidentally left out the word "it" in the sentence above. Hence, I corrected said typo on July 29th, the verification of which can be seen reflected in the addition of the date "revised July 29th, 2025" after my name.
However, as I got to thinking about the fact that I had originally said
I may not be voting in any upcoming elections, I realized that, in fact,
I did vote in Portland Oregon's Multnomah County Special District Election on May 20th, 2025, just like I usually do! [I always vote in every election (even 'special elections') and I always vote Democrat, which is why I was worried about voting in any upcoming elections given President Trump's clear disdain for Democrats.]
Therefore, I decided to write this "P.S." today, July 31st, as a way to clarify that I am still voting in elections (even 'special elections'), it's just that I am no longer engaging in any 'Online Activism,' during Trump's Presidency, as I explained in great detail above. (I hope that makes sense!)
–Paul Whiting (written November 6th, 2024, revised November 7th, 2024, revised July 29th, 2025 and revised July 31st, 2025)
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Blogger's Note: This is a follow-up to my 'November 6th, 2024 Update No. 1 [My Writing About No Longer Being An 'Online Activist' In Any Way, Shape Or Form]' that is located on my blog post "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog. And that update stated, in part, the following:
"Due to Donald Trump winning the 2024 Presidential Election—and until further notice—I am no longer being an 'Online Activist' in any way, shape or form, which includes no longer signing petitions from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations, and no longer sending letters to my Representative and Senators in Congress, as well as no longer making donations to political, social, environmental and charitable causes. Full stop! I am also unsubscribing from any of the emails that I used to receive from political, social, environmental and charitable organizations. In fact, I am even cancelling all of my monthly political donations to the main Democratic fundraising and coordinating organizations, as well as to the USO (United Service Organizations), in addition to cancelling all of my monthly news organization subscriptions, or news organization donations, because I am absolutely terrified of this second Trump administration. ..."
You see, I have restarted donating to organizations which support the U.S. Military, including the USO (United Service Organizations)—that I restarted donating to as of April 16th, 2026—which supports our Active Duty Personnel, as well as Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA), in addition to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP)—that I restarted donating to as of May 25th, 2026—all of which support our Military Veterans.
So, for the complete updates (with any corresponding ‘My Writing About...’) regarding these restarted donations, please see my blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity," which can be found on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs, within which you can do a find-in-page search for the updates listed below by their label names (or, by their corresponding ‘My Writing About...' titles, where applicable).
These are the updates regarding my restarted donations to the USO on April 16th, 2026:
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 1, Written On April 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026]
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 2, Written On April 19th, 2026)
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 3, Written On May 17th, 2026) [My Writing About How I Restarted Donating To The USO (United Service Organizations) As Of April 2026, Part 2]
April 16th, 2026 Update No. 1 (Follow-Up No. 4, Written On June 15th, 2026, Which Also Discusses June 14th, 2026)
Theses are the updates regarding my restarted donations to Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America (IAVA), and to Armed Services YMCA (ASYMCA), as well as to Wounded Warrior Project (WWP), respectively, on May 25th, 2026:
May 25th, 2026 Update No. 3, Written On May 26th, 2026
May 25th, 2026 Update No. 4, Written On May 27th, 2026, Which Also Discusses May 2026
May 25th, 2026 Update No. 5, Written On May 27th, 2026
Now, to clarify something: I would normally also refer you to my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog, for these blog post updates (and for the corresponding ‘My Writing About…’, where applicable), but I cannot edit this post anymore—for an unknown reason—as of May 11th, 2026. So, any editing that I have tried to do on this blog post, after May 11th, for some reason won't save...
…Although, on June 20th, 2026, I thought to relocate all of the 2026 updates from my original blog post, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was," to my newer "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was, Part 2." You see, I had created that 'Part 2' blog post as a backup post, because there was a period of time when the original blog post kept being unpublished by Blogger for being too 'spammy'—I am guessing because of all the hyperlinks that I was providing for news articles that I was referring to my readers!
Anyway, that relocation of the 2026 updates seemed to have worked in getting the original blog post to be "editable" again, at least temporarily... But, then, later on that same day, I tried to add some additional text to the post and it would not save again! However, at least this time, instead of just saying that the "Update failed," it specifically stated, "The body is too large." Thus, I am assuming the 'unknown reason' that I stopped being able to edit the post on May 11th was because I had—apparently—reached some sort of blog post size threshold!
(So now, I am thinking of editing out most of the news updates, which I wrote on that original post, because those updates weren't nearly as pertinent to my "Online Activism" as was responding to the text message, email, and regular mail communications that I was receiving from various political, progressive and charitable organizations.)
In conclusion, then: for the complete updates (with any corresponding ‘My Writing About...’) regarding these restarted donations, I can now refer you to my blog post titled, "I Am No Longer Being An Activist In The Same Way That I Was, Part 2,” which can be found on my "Poet, Artist and Philosopher" blog, in addition to the above-mentioned blog post titled, "My Point Of View On...Giving Charity And Accepting Charity," which can be found on both of my "Paul Whiting — Math Magician" and "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" blogs.
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This "Paul Whiting — A Creative Writer" Post No. 130 was edited on June 22nd, 2026.
"Poetry is using the fewest words possible in order to describe all that is possible to describe." –Paul Whiting [June 1st, 2022]
