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I try to be grateful for the blessings in my life everyday but this time of year in the thanks and giving season it is our collective opportunity. And this year for the first time in many years, Thanksgiving Day and the first night of Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, fall on the same day—an opportunity to appreciate and be grateful for what lets the light in.

Do you know a man struggling with relationships, work, school, depression, substance abuse? Are you going to see him over the upcoming holidays?

Or perhaps you are that man and will be visiting loved ones next week over Thanksgiving or Chanukah.

Lots of things can inspire a man to want to improve his life.  Disappointment over a failed relationship, a job or career setback, remorse about an act of violence or even the unexpected hollowness of a long-sought success can all prompt self examination. 

As we heal, those markings disappear. They're replaced by our inner peace, self-assurance and the knowledge that we're no longer "just survivors." We are overcoming the pain of our childhood. And most of all, we finally like ourselves.

As survivors, many things often show up at holidays that can trigger us. So here is the simple message I want to share. Be careful and take care of yourself. Try to keep an ally—a friend or partner—who understands and will support you close at all times.

Although a few children are able to ask for help while young, some of us (and perhaps that word should be many) aren't ready until we're hitting our middle years. I was one of those.

Resilience is a remarkable characteristic we humans possess.

"Get over it” is a myth, not a methodology. Let's put it to rest once and for all.

There are 19 million men in this country who, in some form, have had similar experiences. You are not alone, and those who will help and support your healing journey are many. We are here to bear witness to your pain and celebrate your recovery.