"So, like, has your dad ever killed someone?"
Why would you ask me that? Obviously, I don't know that answer, I don't plan on asking, and I don't want to know.
"Do you miss him while he's away?"
Would you miss your mom or dad if they left home for a year?
"Yes, but he's not on the front lines, so that's better."
Actually, not really. It's the exact same. He's still in a scary place with the chance of being killed.
"At least they're still alive."
No comment.
"So, like, do you get to call them still?"
Not always. It depends on them, their schedule and what is needed of them for the day.
What nobody ever asks:
"Are you OK?"
Nope, we're not.
I'm not so sure if people don't understand how to be there for someone who has a parent or loved one away at war, or if it's too inconvenient for them to ask, but I can tell you with absolute certainty, ask the question. You don't have to be a psychologist or rocket scientist to know it is extremely difficult and emotional for anyone, let alone a child, to have to say goodbye to a parent for a sometimes unknown period of time.
Military members serve with honor, bravery and commitment, and so do their children back home. Of course, everyone in the world has issues and challenges they must face within their lifetime, but would it really be so hard to ask us how we're doing or how my family is, if we need anything?
Trust me, military families have too much pride to ask for help. We're strong and determined to get through each day and each deployment with grace, power and love. That doesn't mean it wouldn't be nice to come across and well-meaning and empathetic person.
They leave for the weekend each month or months on end and have an impeccable sense of nationalism. All of those trips to the base to get branch logo t-shirts, and crying uncontrollably at YouTube coming home videos where the mom or dad surprise the kids at school.
Being a military kid teaches you so much more about love, strength and perseverance and how to better overcome each new challenge within your life. I wouldn't want it any other way, and I am so thankful to have a true American hero for a parent.
Oh, and by the way, go, Navy!
