Jillian's Military Event Impressions

Family. It is something that, no matter what, in some way shape or form, is taken for granted. We know they will always be there for us and that they will always have our back, but the simple words "thank you" never seem to leave our mouths. It is as though their love and support has become nothing more than an expectation. Imagine… what if one of your loved ones was taken away from you for 6 months, 9 months, or even a year. What would you do? Would you then realize their importance, or maybe think twice before fighting over something silly like getting what you want? 

Both this past Monday and Tuesday my mind was opened up to a whole new world. The Varsity Girls performed at two military events. Monday night was for a fundraiser and was open to those who had family overseas or had died over seas. My eyes kept scanning the room, looking around at all the little kids and their single parent, or even just their grandparents who step into the roles of mom and dad. It was so sad to witness and to think of how lucky we are to not have to go through that pain. 

Tuesday night rolled around and what was originally just going to be a rehearsal night turned into another opportunity to perform for military families. The only difference was that these families were not going to be in pain much longer for at any moment their loved ones from overseas would step foot through the doors. Here there were many children as well. One little boy came up to me after our performance and said "My daddy is coming home tonight!" And when I asked if he was excited he said "Obviously!" as though I was asking the dumbest question ever created. I couldn't help but smile at that moment.

As the soldiers poured into the room the four of us girls stood there in tears watching the families jumped on their loved ones. It was such a beautiful site. I then remembered that the woman running the event said that they had left back in January... that is nearly a year. That is what made me so sad to believe that these families went without their mothers, fathers, sons, daughters, nieces and nephews for such a long time. But then I smiled thinking to myself… They would be home for the holidays, what a wonder thought.

So the next time you get into a fight with mom and dad, or even mom and dad, when you get impatient with your children. Please think of how lucky you are to see them every day and be in full contact with them. And just tell them you love them because they are not something that should ever be taken for granted.