Built From Within
Over the past four months, we’ve taken you on a journey with The Station Foundation. Our Journal entries have brought you closer to our inner workings. You’ve met our teammates, not through titles but through stories from their voices – military children, service members, and spouses. Hearing these stories creates more than just understanding; it forges a personal connection, because what’s shared is real, lived, and deeply authentic. Through these personal, real-life accounts, you’ve seen the quiet strength, the deep challenges, and the raw humanity that drive everything we do.
As summer approaches and many of us prepare to slow down, step back, and reconnect with what matters most, we invite you to take a moment to now connect to our offerings. This special Journal edition includes intentional exercises created by our team – born from our own experiences and proven through the healing journeys of those we serve. These practices are simple, powerful, and grounded in what has worked. We offer them to you not just as readers, but as fellow travelers on this path. They’re designed for reflection, connection, and growth throughout life’s journey.
–The Station Team
Positive Perspective
Shifting how we view a situation can transform our attitude and reveal new opportunities. Practicing gratitude helps us appreciate what we often take for granted, positively impacting our relationships and home life.
Changing perspective not only reframes problems into opportunities but also boosts cognitive function and emotional regulation.
One mindfulness exercise that requires a reframe of thoughts is called perspective-taking. During these exercises you shift focus from scarcity to an abundance of blessings. Reframing your “have to’s” into “get to’s” or writing down three things you are grateful for at the start or end of your day are great ways to begin perspective-taking.
I HAVE TO:
- I have to clean the house.
- I have to go grocery shopping.
- I have to make dinner.
I GET TO:
- I get to take care of a space where my family can relax and connect.
- I get to buy food that nourishes my family.
- I get to make dinner and spend quality time with my family.
Curiosity And Exploration
As children, we naturally explore the world through our senses, using curiosity and play to learn and grow. This instinctive, playful learning shapes who we are.
Living with curiosity has many cognitive benefits – it boosts dopamine, enhances happiness, increases openness, improves productivity, and sharpens problem-solving skills. Below are a few ways you can explore curiosity with your family during the summer months.
Spark Playfulness:
- Lie down outside and look for shapes in the clouds.
- Humor and silliness encourages an atmosphere of exploration. Host a family dance party.
- Time in nature is healing. Take a family walk and ask your family which flower they like best.
Questions To Explore:
- What feelings do you experience when you face a difficult situation?
- Can you think of a time when facing a challenge made you feel stronger?
- Don’t judge a book by its cover. What do you think this phrase means?
Thank You For Your Support
Thank you for your continued support in making this possible. Your generosity provides powerful experiences that help Special Operations Forces—Warriors, Spouses, Children, and Gold Star Children— heal from the impacts of combat.
To learn more about supporting The Station, email Jazlyn Greenwood at: jgreenwood@thestationfoundation.org
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