Brave. A small word with such a big impact. What does it mean to me?
The first thing that pops into my head when I hear the word brave is our military. I think of all the men and women who put their lives on the line on a daily basis for our freedom. I can't imagine the things they go through and see everyday. Being hundreds of miles away from their family at months at a time. Missing holidays and birthdays all for a society that is sometimes too selfish to realize what is really at risk. That's brave.
The second thing I think of is the family of those soldiers. They are pretty brave too. The wives that watch their husbands pack everything they can into a duffle bag and step onto a bus with no promise they they will return. The mother that watches her only child hug his father, who is feeling an overpowering mixture of pride and fear, and the turn to board the same bus knowing that there is no way she can keep him safe.
I know many people, both family and friends, who are/have been in various branches of the military. I have seen first hand how this affects their lives and how hard it is. I was there when a sweet little boy was born and his daddy was unable to be there due to his obligation to the Marines. I know how hard it was for both mom and dad to be apart during such a special time. It's just one of the many sacrifices made.
I pray that I never have to feel that fear or experience that sadness. However, should any of my children make the choice to join the military I hope that I can be as brave as they are choosing to be. I hope I a be as brave as those who have been before me.
STOP
* I borrowed this photo from one of my close friends. It's her and her husband saying goodbye on the day he left for Iraq. If this isn't the definition of bravery I don't know what is.
I am linking up with Lisa-Jo Baker for Five Minute Friday.
Wonderful tribute, bless you.
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