We see it on social media every day— like and share this post, you’re tagged in this, participate in this, share for awareness. There are many campaigns for a cause all over the Internet. Many scroll past and disregard. How could a post make a difference in anyone’s life? It may be true that the millions of posts on social media and articles all over the Internet make little impact on the troubles of the world— but some are groundbreaking.
For many soldiers, the 22 Kill Challenge is bringing hope and awareness for military members that have been struggling alone. A simple act of support has been creating an impact and public education. The challenge is giving so many men and women a voice through social media.
Unfortunately, many military members bring home Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, or battles with transition to civilian life after serving overseas. Each day an average of 22 veterans die from suicide. Honor Courage Commitment Inc. is dedicated to understanding why this number is so high. Through research and education of the public, HCC hopes to change these staggering statistics. Veteran empowerment, suicide awareness, and prevention— these are the words that the global movement #22Kill is screaming out loud on behalf of the brave service men and women who have served their country.
The message is simple; educate the public about current veteran-related issues and topics, raise awareness for veteran suicide and mental health such as PTS, recruit veteran advocates, or “Battle Buddies,” and support various organizations that help veterans and their families. Advocates wear the Honor Ring as a “silent salute” to all veterans past and present as a reminder that no veteran is alone and that they all have family, no matter what.
Social media users all over the world are participating in this challenge by taking the time to post a video of themselves doing 22 push-ups each day and nominating a friend to do the same. I’ve begun the challenge this week and I can honestly say that it is the least silly social media challenge I’ve ever had the honor of participating in. Push-ups seem much easier when you think of the military member that died for each one that you do. It's good for everyone's health as well to commit to some physical activity each day.
Whether you believe in war, politics, or not, the fact is that men and women put their lives on the line for our freedoms and then come home with scars that they can’t escape. I hope that military men and women may see people from all walks of life taking the time to attempt push-ups in support of what they've all done for us. I hope it makes these brave souls smile.
In the age of technology, we can connect in ways we've never been able to before— across continents wherever we are. I hope that this movement helps just one person to find their way out of the darkness. I hope that it makes more people aware of those that are also hurting right next to us, not just states or countries away. If so, then it is much more than a silly social media challenge— it is a reach for someone’s hand with a simple video through cyberspace when you can’t physically sit by his or her side.
