So, I'm posting from Oklahoma. My sister, Debbi, drove out with Mary and me to pick up Keri. Matthew is done with his regular Army career sometime this summer. Their lease runs out at the end of June. They plan to come back to Illinois, so Keri is moving up wirh us. Matthew will stay here until his enlistment is over. We did a road-warrior drive Saturday night/Sunday morning. We've spent the time since visiting.
Most people never get a look at a military family. We know they're out there, and we imagine the stresses they face. Every time I visit a military post, I am humbled by the strength and resilience of those who serve by waiting. Especially when you consider just how young these (mostly) wives and mothers are, how financially strapped, and how unprivileged in the world's eyes, it is deeply moving. All of us start our adult lives in some sort of struggle; to get on our feet financially, to find our place in this world, to set a course to that place. Now, imagine compounding that struggle with worries about sick children and TriCare, the military's healthcare system. Or the deployment of a husband to a dangerous place. The birth of a child while he's gone. Making friends and connections that dissolve overnight "for the needs of the service." Be amazed. Be very amazed.
Today we'll be cleaning their apartment so they can finish moving out. We'll buy some Ft. Sill memorabilia. And, about 10pm, Debbi, Mary, Keri and I will head back to Illinois. Happy Trails!!
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