This made me cry, Beth. I was a daughter standing in front of a recruiter once. Back then, I didn’t really think about how my mom or siblings would feel about my decision to join the military—it just felt like the right thing to do so I did it. Last year, my sister told me that for her and my brothers, it felt like they lost a second mom when I left, and that broke my heart a little. At the time, I just thought I was setting a good example. Maybe both things are true. After reading this, now I’m going to ask my mom if it changed how she saw herself too. Such a beautiful piece.
I would LOVE to know what your mom says about her experience!
Both my kids enlisted (same branch) within 4 months of each other and I am SO glad. They have always ben close and I'm glad they will always have each other to talk to about their service --I don't think those of us who haven't experienced it first hand can really understand.
And thanks so much for sharing how the story touched you, that means the world to me as a writer -- and a mom!
I’ll definitely let you know what she says! She’s the strongest woman I know with the most joyful outlook on life, so I’m sure she’ll say something to give me watery heart eyes. 🤣
It is so much easier to have someone that understands that type of experience! Your kids are so lucky to have each other. That’s awesome!
I will also say that before going to basic training, I thought it was going to be misery the whole time. Shockingly, after the first couple of weeks, basic training was actually fun.
Then the structure of the first few years makes it so much easier to grow up in a safe environment with other people that understand you deeply. The military experience is incredible in respect to the bonding that happens between complete strangers. They truly do become your family.
Looking back, I believe that anyone who has the privilege to join the military is extremely lucky. As a mom, I wish my son had the opportunity to do so. And as one mom to another, know that your kids are valued and loved.
Such a strong story. Amazing transformation for both of you.
This made me cry, Beth. I was a daughter standing in front of a recruiter once. Back then, I didn’t really think about how my mom or siblings would feel about my decision to join the military—it just felt like the right thing to do so I did it. Last year, my sister told me that for her and my brothers, it felt like they lost a second mom when I left, and that broke my heart a little. At the time, I just thought I was setting a good example. Maybe both things are true. After reading this, now I’m going to ask my mom if it changed how she saw herself too. Such a beautiful piece.
I would LOVE to know what your mom says about her experience!
Both my kids enlisted (same branch) within 4 months of each other and I am SO glad. They have always ben close and I'm glad they will always have each other to talk to about their service --I don't think those of us who haven't experienced it first hand can really understand.
And thanks so much for sharing how the story touched you, that means the world to me as a writer -- and a mom!
I’ll definitely let you know what she says! She’s the strongest woman I know with the most joyful outlook on life, so I’m sure she’ll say something to give me watery heart eyes. 🤣
It is so much easier to have someone that understands that type of experience! Your kids are so lucky to have each other. That’s awesome!
I will also say that before going to basic training, I thought it was going to be misery the whole time. Shockingly, after the first couple of weeks, basic training was actually fun.
Then the structure of the first few years makes it so much easier to grow up in a safe environment with other people that understand you deeply. The military experience is incredible in respect to the bonding that happens between complete strangers. They truly do become your family.
Looking back, I believe that anyone who has the privilege to join the military is extremely lucky. As a mom, I wish my son had the opportunity to do so. And as one mom to another, know that your kids are valued and loved.
Your reply really has me thinking —I feel a new post coming on! 😅
Yay!!! That’s always the best! 💖
So touching & well written!
Having never had anything to do with military, nor being a mother, I could still feel myself in your shoes on both accounts….
Thanks so much for this, Brighde--that's just what I hope for everyone who reads my work!
Thank you!
Oh my goodness Beth, this resonates. My 18 year old is about to join the Marines in a couple of months. It is quite terrifying (British though)
Hi Beth! Gotta say, I love seeing Waldorf kids joining the military. Semper Fi.
Your writing is deeply touching and incredibly lovingly!
"How could I support my child in an environment so far away, so completely alien, and unknown to me?"
I hope you realise how much of a strong, reflective and deeply nurturing and supporting mum you are just by having asked yourself this very question?
Thanks so much for sharing this personal and inspiring story with us.