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April 22, 2004

A Mother's Wait

As a mother of a US Marine serving heroically for our country, waiting is just part of the game. But when the conflict in Iraq changed dramatically last weekend, the waiting game changed as well - it was a constant need to hear my sons voice and to know that he was fine. But, the waiting went from moments to minutes to days, ultimately three days later, Monday evening at 10:00pm actually. I answered the phone and heard his voice, "hi mom" . There was a sudden glorified relief and then the realization of are there words to express both my happiness and my sadness for him. He had lost five fellow Marines and it was evident that the aftermath of Saturday's battle was heartwrenching. His voice was low and he seemed a little disoriented, 'what time is it, and what day is it?' His number one request was to pray for the families of these brave and giving men. Once again, we are reminded that freedom is not free, and all of us as Americans living free should count the many blessings, even a phone call.

As, our conversation continued, it was short and the conversation was limited to making sure his family was doing OK, unselfishly focused on others in his life, both in Iraq and at home. He shared that being in a remote area of Iraq mail is very slow. Many Marines still are not receiving mail. And, communication is limited at a time when our troops need to hear the encouragement from the American people that they are supported and recognized for the job they are doing for people who are having a hard time adjusting to a new found freedom. I asked my son what can we do? He said that Marines are without socks, please send socks. Every package that arrives is like someones birthday. They all stand around and watch to see what is opened up and then they share the goods. Today, I will send a package that I know will be a present to someone, one that will be shared with many and appreciated more than I will ever know. A small token of my appreciation of the freedom I have everyday. God bless our US Marines! God bless my son!

Posted by Deb at April 22, 2004 12:17 PM