Last night my son called and said, “Mom, can you meet for lunch tomorrow, I have something I want to tell you face to face.”
Well, you can imagine that my mind started going crazy with all of the things it could possibly be. I had several people suggest several possible ideas, most of them I dismissed for one reason or another.
To say the least it was a long night. I have been awake since 4 a.m.
At lunch he said, “I have bad news, and I have good news.”
Basically, it basically boils down to this:
I wrote in my last military update post about the fact that my son had chosen Infantry as his MOS (career). After much soul searching, following wisdom of those already in the Corps, and thankfully, listening to his parents, he had a change of heart.
His new MOS is now Communications. However, this was the hard part. We were prepared for his departure at the end of February. I had prepared myself spiritually, and emotionally for that date. Well, since he changed his MOS, the Marine Corps changed his plans.
He leaves in 16 DAYS!Â
Talk about tearing my heart out. I cried, and cried.
I have known since the day he signed his enlistment papers in September that his departure date was flexible. However, this does not make it any easier to let go.
I am now preparing myself, my son and my family for his departure.
I am so very thankful for the family vacation we had in Gatlinburg at New Year’s. That time together truly makes his leaving a little easier to bear. It is important to create memories before a loved one in the military deploys, or leaves for service. It helps with the time of separation.
The next 16 days will be very busy, making sure we have everything in place, and everything is stored until he knows where he will be stationed, which won’t be for a while.
Please say a prayer for my family during this time, we need them all.
Semper Fi!
thegeekwife
Oh sweetie I’m sorry! I will be sending you and your family extra prayers! I’m sure this will not be easy so if you need to chat I’m always here for you. Xo!
I have had many friends and family members leave just this way, on this schedule. Some are overseas now. Take comfort that it is a strong brotherhood, each has the other’s back, and remember to send lots of chocolate. All will be well.
I can’t imagine letting my kids go yet. My oldest is 16 and I dread the day that she leaves my house forever. I know it will happen but I am just not ready to share my baby with the world. Kudos for letting your son make his own career choices. The military isn’t an easy life but it is very rewarding.