Yesterday was one of those crisp downtown mornings when the coffee smelled stronger, and the sidewalks buzzed with activity. As I strolled past shops, lost in my thoughts, I spotted a familiar figure slouched on a bench. It was Rambo. Yes, the Rambo—muscles, headband, and a look that could scare a storm into submission. Except today, he wasn’t looking his usual tough-as-nails self. His shoulders sagged, and there was a cloud of worry over his rugged features.
Now, Rambo and I go way back. We bonded over the Mental Health Warrior Program, a SELF-HELP approach I created based on my 20-year battle with Bipolar, Alcoholism, Anxiety Disorders, and PTSD. It's designed to empower people to triumph over life’s challenges. Rambo, like me, had faced his own mental health struggles, and over time, we’ve become each other’s sounding boards, sharing warrior tips and strategies to stay strong.
But today was different. He looked troubled. “Rambo,” I said, sitting down beside him, “what’s going on?” He sighed, looking down at his calloused hands. “It’s my friends,” he said in that gravelly voice. “They’re struggling—mentally, emotionally. And I want to help, but sometimes I don’t feel strong enough myself. How do I keep going for them if I can’t even handle my own stuff?”
I nodded, understanding the weight of his words. “Rambo,” I said, “I’ve got just the thing. It’s a warrior tool I use every day to remind myself of my strength and to stay grounded when challenges feel overwhelming.” I reached into my pocket and pulled out my Mental Health Warrior Challenge Coin. On one side, it gleamed with the warrior emblem. On the other, it bore the words: “I Am Stronger Than My Challenges.”
“This is,” I said, holding it up, “my daily companion. It’s not just a coin—it’s a source of strength, a reminder, and a way to stay connected with others.”
Rambo leaned in, inspecting the coin like it was a piece of tactical gear. “How does it work?” he asked.
1. Staying Strong for Yourself
“The first way this coin helps,” I began, “is by reminding me that I have to stay strong to help others. When my challenges try to take over the day—whether it’s anxiety sneaking in or a wave of self-doubt—I hold the coin in my hand. Its weight reminds me that I’ve faced tough times before and triumphed. It’s a simple, tangible reminder that I am stronger than whatever I’m facing.”
Rambo’s Takeaway:
Rambo nodded slowly, rubbing his chin. “I could see that,” he said. “There are days when the memories get heavy, and it feels like they’re winning. But if I had something like this, something I could carry with me, it might help me push through.”
“And not just for you,” I added. “When you’re strong, you’re in a better place to support your friends.” He looked thoughtful. “Yeah,” he said. “I can’t help them if I’m not strong myself.”
2. A Daily Reminder to Check In
“The second way I use the coin,” I continued, “is by keeping one on my desk. Every time I see it, it’s a visual reminder that I’m a Mental Health Warrior and that I’m stronger than my challenges. But it also reminds me to check in with my friends. Whether it’s a quick text, a phone call, or an email, I make it a point to reach out and pass along the message that they can triumph too.”
Rambo’s Takeaway:
Rambo’s face lit up. “I like that,” he said. “Sometimes, I get so caught up in my own battles that I forget to check in on my squad. But if I saw something like this every day, it’d remind me to connect with them—and to let them know they’re not alone.”
“Exactly,” I said. “It’s not just about us; it’s about building a community of warriors who lift each other up.” He smiled faintly. “I could use that. And I know a few people who’d appreciate it too.”
3. Sharing Strength in Tough Times
“The third way this coin helps,” I said, “is by being a symbol of support that I can share. When I see someone struggling, I’ve been known to hand them my coin. Or I’ll pick one up specifically for them. It’s a way to show that I believe in them, that they have the strength to overcome their challenges. Early in my warrior journey, people shared their strength with me, and it made all the difference.”
Rambo’s Takeaway:
Rambo’s eyes narrowed in that intense way that probably scared villains senseless. “You’d just give it to someone?” he asked. “Absolutely,” I said. “Because sometimes, the smallest gesture can have the biggest impact. And when they hold that coin, they’ll know someone out there believes in them.”
He nodded firmly. “I like that. A lot. I’ve got a buddy who’s been going through it lately. If I gave him one of these, it might be exactly what he needs to keep going.”
A Warrior’s Pact
We sat in silence for a moment, both of us reflecting on the power of such a simple yet profound tool. Finally, Rambo broke the silence. “This coin,” he said, “it’s more than just a reminder. It’s like carrying a little piece of the warrior spirit with you.”
“Exactly,” I said. “And when you pass it on, you’re sharing that spirit with someone else.”
And then I reached into my pocket and handed him my Mental Health Warrior Challenge Coin. “This one’s yours. Use it to stay strong. And when the time’s right, pass it on to someone who needs it.” Rambo took the coin, his calloused fingers curling around it. “Thanks, Bruce,” he said. “I won’t let it end up at the bottom of my survival kit.” “I’m holding you to that,” I replied with a grin.
Back to the Battlefield
As we realized we’d been chatting for over an hour, we stood up, ready to face the rest of the day. Rambo tucked the coin into his pocket and gave me a firm nod. “I’ve got some people to check in on,” he said. “And a lot of challenges to conquer.” “Don’t we all?” I replied. “But remember, you’re stronger than your challenges. And now, so are your friends.”
We parted ways, both of us carrying the warrior strength in our hearts (and Rambo, quite literally, in his pocket). As I walked away, I felt a deep sense of gratitude—for being able to share the coin and its strength with a friend who was struggling! As together we are stronger!
So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed or want to share hope with someone else, check out the Mental Health Warrior Challenge Coin. Carry it with you, pass it on, and revel in its power. Because it reminds you, that as a Mental Health Warrior, you are stronger than your challenges and will Overcome any challenge life throws your way!
Bruce Schutter
Creator of Mental Health Warrior Program and Challenge Coin
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