Such a small phrase, but over the two weeks the weight of it really hit home. My dad had a heart attack 2 weeks ago. Because of COVID, I haven't been home in 2.5 years, and even though we were planning to come home between moves, I had to get home to see him.
So after jumping through some hoops and 36 hours of travel later, my family of 5 is home.
These are the things that make living the military life hard, and as I get older, I'm confronted with the reality that everyone will transition at some point. Doesn't make it any easier, but looking the other way won't either.
I'm not alone in this though. Many of my friends of dealt with sickness and loss while being thousands of miles away from home. We hold each other up in those times when we aren't able to get home. Friends turn into family who bring a 'thinking of you' gift to your house with snacks, candles, and fluffy socks and take you to the airport.
It doesn't stop there though. Social media has increased my family exponentially. The IG family who send thoughts and prayers from miles away. Those who ask if you need anything shipped to you at your parents house so you don't have to pack a million things in a suitcase.
And of course, the literal, on the ground people that know you and your family personally checking to see if you need anything. The texts, the calls. They all add up, and prove to you that even when you feel alone, you aren't.
Hopefully you guys know how much I love you, and I know the love is returned, but in times like these, it's so much more evident that even when people have things going on in their lives, love will make you pause and shoot a quick "Just checking on you." I'm eternally grateful. The words to express that gratitude will forever escape me.