Last summer, my boyfriend went to boot camp. Most people said we wouldn't make it, but we have. We beat what society and most people said would not work. So here is some advice on how to get through your significant other going to boot camp for the military, whether its Marines, Army, Navy Seals, Air Force, etc.
1. Make sure you both are in the relationship for the long haul.
Talk about your feelings: sad, happy, mad, confused about why they are leaving. The three or more months that they are gone are going to be extremely hard and confusing. You can not talk on the phone, text, Snapchat, Skype- only letters. It's like the old times. You'll become an expert letter writer by the end of the months he/she is gone. Be honest with each other before and during the time you are separated.
2. Make a promise to write at least twice a week.
I wrote a letter everyday. When college started, it was difficult to keep up a letter everyday, but you'll find time. Even at 1:30 a.m. when you can't sleep. Send extra paper, envelopes and stamps; this will help them write you back and they won't have to scramble around to find enough stamps to send a letter to their mom and you. Write about your day. Keep it light. Do not say stressful things to them. When they read these letters, it's a relaxing time- so make them joyful. Letters can be long or short. I made really long letters and sometimes I would just send a small letter saying, "Hope your day is great! Keep going, you can do it!" Any encouragement is helpful.
3. Pray.
Pray together before they leave. Pray that they will be safe, guided, have wisdom and stay in tune with God while they are gone. They are going through one of the hardest moments of their life and they need the support of you, their family and God. Pray for them while they are gone. Ask God to protect them and comfort them. Don't just pray for your significant other, but the people they will be living with. They are all tired and ready to come home. They need all the prayers they can get.
4. Be strong for him/her.
The day they leave; that day will be the dreaded day. It was for me. I didn't want it to come. It will hurt when they leave. Be strong for them. I held the tears back as he left and cried when I got home. This is a day you do not want to plan a big excursion or time to do a huge load of stuff. Make it a light day, spend time with your family. I spent the day with family and went for a walk around at the park.
5. Relax.
Stay fit while they are gone. Trust me, going on a walk for an hour to clear your mind helps so much. You're going to be extremely stressed waiting on letters to come and whatever else you have going on. You need to relax.
This is just a small list of what might help you. I learned these things as the months went by. Remember your significant other, family member or loved one will be enduring on a very challenging and big journey. Support them and love them. And remember, God is with you on your journey through this beautiful life.
