Something I've Been Thinking About-May 14, 2008

I know its not the 4th of July or anything, I also know that most people don't like to listen to music on other people's blogs, but I really wanted to do something patriotic. When I went to Utah in March I had a heartfelt conversation with Clint's grandpa about military service. The conversation turned to how much a soldier truly sacrifices to serve his/her country (even those who are not or have not been in actual war). Tears came to grandpa's eyes as he told me how unfair it is that so many Americans go about their lives and never think twice about why they enjoy the freedoms they have (yes I am also guilty of this). Soldiers leave their families and homes to live in unfamiliar places outside their comfort zones. Many soldiers are blessed to have their wives and children with them, but they still sacrifice by leaving their parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, homes, nice apartments with a view, and jobs. The thought of being deployed or being sent overseas without spouses and children always weighs on their minds. The future is always uncertain. Where will we go? Will we be together? How long will we be there? How long will we be apart? How will the kids handle it? How will I handle it? Are we strong enough? So I feel like I should acknowledge the great men and women who have served and are now serving in the military. Many people have lost loved ones, been wounded, suffered, sacrificed, and fought for what we now call a 'normal' life. Being an Army wife has become part of my everyday life. I try not to think about how far away my family is, how much I miss them, how comfortable I was being in the majority instead of being a minority. Its just the way things are now. And they will be for a while. Even I, being surrounded by military life, forget to appreciate those who serve in the miltary and their families. So I've decided to make an effort to remember them in my prayers and to express my thanks in any way I can. It means so much to us that people pray for us, that when they see us they thank us for what we do (even though it hasn't been much yet), and that grandpa Paul's gratitude is so great that it brings a tear to his eyes. Thanks to everyone in the military and their families, for putting their wants and needs aside to fight for what they believe to be right.