Loving Life as an Army Wife

“He’s at such a fun age,” everyone told me regarding my toddler as we prepared for the holidays. While I can agree, each joyful experience is also overshadowed by a bit of sadness. This holiday season, we are missing a very important part of our little family: Daddy. You see, my husband is a soldier in the U.S. Army and currently serving his second tour of duty. He watches our little darling grow and learn through pictures and videos posted on Facebook and even (when said toddler is cooperative) an interactive session on Skype. Much of our married life has been spent apart, so when I sit to write about “loving life in my current season of life” – well, I struggle.
Some days I feel more like the psalmist or the prophets of the Old Testament, crying out , “How long, oh Lord?” rather than the apostle Paul who “learned to be content in all circumstances” and “rejoice in the Lord always”. However, because I have such a fun little person in my life, the sadness doesn’t last long and the frustrations are often melted away in giggles. Even though my husband and I are separated for a time, I wouldn’t change anything about our lives together. I have not reached the contented state of Paul by any means, but my goal is that my attitude be shaped by his writing.
Philippians 4:8, 10-13
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.  I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.