And So I Cried For You…

Yesterday morning, early, I was boarding a plane in Kansas. And unintentionally, I became caught in a moment, a private family moment, but a moment for all of us.
Standing several feet to my left was a family. Mom and Dad, probably my age. Daughter-in-law and precious grand baby.  And in an Army camouflage uniform and crisp clean-cut hair cut, their son.
I got caught up in watching. Dad as he shook his son’s hand then stepped to the side with his hands in his pockets. Mom, as she gave her 20something baby a bear hug. The son, as he loved on his little girl, laughing and giggling.  Mom reached for the baby and stepped aside. I wondered just what was going through her mind. How torn she must be. How her heart must ache. The fear she must feel for her son’s future, and the pride she must have for his present.
Then I watched as he wrapped his arms around his wife. She clung to him, and they whispered in one another’s ears. And they didn’t let go.   My heart swelled and ached at the same time. Tears rolled down my cheeks, as I felt thankful for all this young family was giving up for my freedoms. Proud of this man, I didn’t even know. Proud that he is a man who loves his family, his country, and me.
As he grabbed his duffel bag and walked away, I prayed for him. And again, last night.  I believe I will continue to pray for him, and all those that leave moms and dads, wives and babies. All those that miss first steps and birthday parties, all those that make an intentional choice to give so much for our freedoms.  God Bless American military men and women.

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