Michael J Neel

Thanks Glenn. I have invited my group and look forward to meeting more.

Thanks man,

Just read it.

Hey guys,
 

I joined up about an hour ago and already can tell that this is a group that I will love. The resources here are amazing and the camaraderie is palpable. I have started gathering a group of smiths in the LV area together and the excitement is growing. We are up to 42 members and doing a lot of cool stuff.

My background is that i have spent a decent amount of time in a lot of other people's forges making pretty typical beginner stuff. In January I decided to stop messing around and start doing stuff. Been to several classes, and I regularly go to a shop here in Vegas where several other veterans and I make all kinds of things. I am excited to be apart of this group and look forward to interacting with you all and Stealin......cough... I mean... learning all your tricks and tactics.


One last thing. I have dealt with PTSD and suicide for along time. I am alive because of my wife, friends, loving strangers and in no small part because of other veterans. I am always here for anyone who is struggling with those type of things. Anyone, anytime. I want you alive and thriving. No matter who you are, or where you are from. If you need someone I will do everything I am able to help you.

Thank you all for your prayers. I live here. I was headed back into town when it happened from California. The devastation was horrible. Many I know lost friends. The city has banded together since and the healing is visible but it will take a long time to heal it all. Please keep praying for us.

Mike,

From one Vet to another I completely get this. I was in the same place 1 week ago today. Involuntarily committed due to the suicidal thoughts and instability it caused me. The therapist helped a lot. God helped me more. Forgive yourself brother. Let go of it and refuse to give it power over you. Don't "buck up" and "get over it". Fight it, every day. Follow the Dr.' advice, listen to those that love you, deny the lies that inevitably run through your head. Actively seek to conquer this every day and you will win. I will pray for you. You are a Veteran. You have already conquered a challenge most cannot. You may have faced war or threat that most cannot. You are strong enough. Remember, your vet brothers need you to win so that you can lend them the strength you find. But do it for yourself first. You deserve it. You owe it to you. PM me if you need someone to talk to.


Mike.

On 3/25/2018 at 4:36 PM, Michael Cochran said:

Thank you all for your support. I know this isn’t going to be quick or easy but it is possible. I’m relearning meditation techniques I used to do regularly to help with stress. Between the meditation, medication, and therapy I should be returning to normal soon enough. I just hope that the damage done isn’t permanent. I can’t lose all that’s on the line or I’ll be worse than I am now. 

THIS^^^ This is perfect. You will win with this attitude. Some of it may be permanent. But from my experience, much less of it than you think once you decided to beat this.

I Have been to see these. Being sold by link removed. They are nice for the most part but I don't know the origin. The guy said he bought a pallet of them but there are no determinable markings. He works on one all the time and either he cleans his facing a lot or it is good steel cause it appears perfect.