A few casualties always come with the war,” Zadok answers…
““A few casualties always come with the war,” Zadok answers. I stare at him for a moment, caught off-guard by his merciless approach. “I doubt you’d say the same if you were one of them.” He looks at me with tired eyes. “That’s where you’re wrong.” His whole body sags, finally showing what age has done to him. “My whole family was a casualty at the Baghdad institute. My parents helped found it. It was the first institute to be targeted by its own government. They went down with it. I was twenty-five. The Jerusalem institute sent help as soon as they found out, before the Iraqi government could search the ruins. I was the only person they found still remotely close to being alive.” His gaze looks lost as he continues. “It took me three years to recover, and four to become a carrier again. It took me that long to re-master my fear of being out of control.” His eyes shift to mine. “Don’t accuse me of not understanding the cost of this war. I understand plenty. I give myself up for it every day.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
A war survivor describes casualties, personal loss, and the long, to reclaim control and fear.
In simple terms: War inflicts deep loss; recovery takes years and courage.
Key Takeaway
Acknowledge trauma and seek healing.
Themes
war
trauma
resilience
Mood
somber
reflective
Type
Casualties:1
Every day:0
Magical realism:0
Politics:0
Three years:1
Tired eyes:1
War:1
Whole family:1
Young adult:0
War Understand:0
Casualties Come:0
Casualty Baghdad:0
Baghdad Institute:0
When to use this quote
- veteran counseling
- support groups
- personal narratives
Key Concepts
casualties
personal loss
recovery
Questions to Reflect On
- What does “re‑mastering fear” mean?
- How can societies support veterans?
A Different Perspective
Recovery may be non‑linear and painful.