Jack and I ate our breakfast together on Veteran's Day. His daddy - for once - is not working on this holiday and is spending the weekend in Missouri with family at Dear Camp.
If you ask Jack where his daddy works, he'll tell you he works with the goats - a rather large demotion for Bryan. But it's true. Bryan's team has a mock town that they train soldiers going oversees in - goats and chickens included.
What Jack doesn't know is that his daddy has exhausted himself in making our world a safer place to live - hoping for a better world for his family, friends, but especially his son.
As I watched Jack eat his breakfast I thought about the sacrifices his little two year old self has made already. He is a headstrong, independent boy who thinks the world of his daddy - and asks for him hourly. When he cries for his daddy, it's legitimate. He's not wanting Bryan because I scolded him. He's not wanting Bryan because he can push the swing higher than I can. He wants his daddy. And his cries are full of sorrow, pain and compassion.
Thinking about the long road ahead of us, I started to cry. Jack looked at me and asked what was wrong. I did not answer. Concerned, he got out of his seat, came over to me and put his hand on my back and gently asked, "Do you miss Jack's daddy, too?"
4 comments:
So very well written,Steph. Jack's comment made me cry, too!
Such a cute pic of Jack with his Dad's cap on! And then you made me cry too, reading your story! Hope Bryan got home safe & sound today and I'm so happy he got that big 12 pt buck at deer camp this year! Good for him! Very exciting! Tell him congrats from me.
Reading this you made me cry! I can't imagine what you guys go through with all of this, but I know you guys are strong, awesome people and I'm so glad to be able to call you family! And to tell you the truth, when Bryan said his goodbye's to us, I had to choke back the tears!! We love you all!!
Okay...crying now. The Berberena family greatly appreciate all the sacrifices Bryan and your family make. You are such a strong woman, mother and wife. Sending love & hugs to all of you!
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