During times of military deployment, families often face emotional challenges, particularly young children who miss their parents. In a heartfelt gesture, a dedicated military father, Mark Thompson, found a way to stay connected with his son, Jake, while serving overseas. Mark filled a jar with 199 chocolate kisses, each representing a night he would be away during his deployment in the Air Force.
A Sweet Reminder of Love
Whenever Jake felt the pang of missing his dad, he could reach into the jar and take a kiss before bedtime. This simple yet profound act brought comfort and a sense of closeness. Mark’s partner, Lisa Thompson, shared with local news that no matter where Jake and his family traveled—whether to Virginia, California, or Texas—he made sure to pack his jar of kisses. This small ritual became a source of joy and reassurance for Jake, helping to alleviate the sadness that often accompanies a parent’s absence.
The Emotional Impact of Deployment
The emotional impact of a parent’s deployment is significant, affecting over 2 million children in the U.S. since 2001. It’s vital for military families to create positive, soothing moments, especially during such stressful times. Each night as Jake retrieved a chocolate kiss, he was reminded that his dad would return home soon. As the kisses gradually diminished, Jake was filled with anticipation for his father’s return—a powerful reminder of love and connection transcending distance.
Additional Resources
For more insights on family dynamics during deployment, check out other posts such as this one on home insemination kits. If you’re interested in learning more about home insemination, Make A Mom offers valuable resources. Additionally, CCRM IVF provides excellent guidance on pregnancy and family planning.
Conclusion
In summary, Mark Thompson’s thoughtful gesture of leaving a jar of 199 Hershey’s kisses for his son Jake during his deployment illustrates the power of love and connection in military families. This simple act helped ease the emotional strain, bringing comfort and anticipation for their reunion.