Processing

There was much debate in my military wives community whether or not we would attend the homecoming of the first wave of soldiers to return from our unit. I was excited to see them home. I was there to see them all leave their families and I felt it important to see them reunited as well. No, my husband is not in this group. As of right now, I don't even know which group he will be in. There will be 3, possibly 4, groups to return our 432 soldiers back into their families arms.

I don't even know how to process what it is that I experienced today. It was pride, excitement, disappointment and gratitude all wrapped into one. I shed some tears. Some for the pride that I felt in getting to be a part of something so powerful. Some for the excitement of watching these families waving at their soldier as if they might burst with joy. Some for the disappointment that I don't know how long I have to wait for this day to be mine. And many for the gratitude that all 432 soldiers will be reunited with their families. Our God is big , people. This unit flew more combat missions than any other in the 8 years supporting OEF. They have suffered no casualties and were awarded only 1 purple heart. As the General said today, "In civilian speak, they flew a lot of missions and they kicked a lot of butt." Well said, General.

I don't know what else to say as I am still processing, but I look forward to doing it again soon.

Now...I need to go make some more signs.


Lord God, thank you for your divine power. Thank you for being the God that beats the odds. I pray that each soldier will be reunited quickly and safely with their family. Allow each family to have a time of pure enjoyment and relax in this moment. Ease the anxieties that creep in as you reunite with someone you haven't lived with in such a long time. Create smooth transitions for each family. And most of all, Lord, allow each soldier and their family members to feel your ever-present love in their homes and in their hearts. In Jesus Name, Amen.