Today

As another group prepares to leave today I find myself sitting and wondering how so many of you are handling these deployments so well. I don't have a boyfriend, a fiance, or a husband on this tour. However I do have a few good friends on it, one in particular is leaving today... and the thought of him leaving for the 3rd time, to do his job...that he loves; scares me.

Due to his trade he is being sent over for a minimum of 9 months to a time of no more than 365 days... he misses Christmas, his birthday and many other family events, that I know he would want to be a part of. But instead, he is getting on a plane to serve his country. Something he knows how to do very well; with 2 tours already under his belt, (his first was in Bosnia and his 2nd was in Af'stan just over a year ago.) he does this without remorse, without fear...instead he looks forward to it; he views it as an opportunity. "There comes a time when one must take a position that is neither safe, nor politic, nor popular, but he must take it because his conscience tells him it is right...." - Martin Luther

I am having a hard time with his tour this time around, I'm not sure if its because I am scared at the fact that one day that could be me... leaving to do something for the greater, or if it's because we missed our pre-deployment coffee tradition this time around, or a mixture of those 2 reason and many others.

Today, I am finding myself frustrated with the people in my office who are complaining about small problems... there biggest fear today is having to work late on a Friday, and there wireless Internet not connecting for parts of the afternoon. I have to admit, I am having to watch what I say to them on these comments more than ever; because today I might just tell them how it is for so many of you. Wireless Internet being down for an hour, is not a huge problem... Today, I found myself angry with one of my co-workers over a snide remark that I would have normally just shrugged off...

I would like to let those women, who are currently going through a deployment, and those of you that have been through a deployment know that; you are some of the strongest people one could ever be fortunate enough to meet. You who hold your head up high, masking the fear and the loneliness. You who religiously pack care packages, and write letters to the people you love. You who are giddy, with a soaring heart and a mile wide smile when you get the smallest conversation or email from your SO. You who go through each day, marking it off on the calender and feel a small sense of accomplishment with every X that has been made. You who fall into bed at night after a week with no phone call, and let the tears fall. You are the hero's; without the love and support that you give to your loved ones; our military wouldn't be the same. I am reminded of these to quotes when I think of a military wife:

"It is interesting to notice how some minds seem almost to create themselves, springing up under every disadvantage, and working their solitary but irresistible way through a thousand obstacles." - Washington Irving

"They merit more praise who know how to suffer misery than those who temper themselves in contentment." -Pietro Aretino

May God bless you and your families.

Until they all come home...

- Stiletto