“It does not matter what you bear, but how you bear it.” – Seneca
In This Episode, We Get Stoic About:
Will Jimeno was a 33 year old rookie cop for the Port Authority Police Department on the morning of September 11, 2001. Shortly after American Airlines Flight 11 struck the North Tower, Jimeno and 19 of his colleagues boarded a commandeered bus and made their way towards the World Trade Center where they entered the mezzanine between the buildings. When the South Tower began to collapse minutes later, Jimeno, his colleague Dominick Pezzulo, and their sergeant, John McLoughlin were trapped in a freight elevator some 20 feet beneath the wreckage.
Jimeno and McLoughlin were two of only twenty survivors to emerge from the collapsed buildings. Their amazing story reminds us that even in times of unimaginable despair, it is within our power to control our mind, and bear the burden with resilience and courage. It reminds us that what defines our character is not the adversity we face, but, rather, the attitude with which we face it.
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Takeaways
Supporting mental health services for first responders is crucial to their well-being.
The 9/11 attacks had a profound impact on many first responders' lives and careers.
The story of Will Jimeno and John McLaughlin demonstrates the power of resilience and mutual support in overcoming adversity.
Controlling one's mind and bearing life's difficulties with resilience is key to personal growth and character development.
Until Next Time…out of role!
How You Bear It