It seems like an eternity has passed, yet it feels like just yesterday. We’ve reached the midpoint of the military deployment—time seems to fly and drag on simultaneously. Here’s a glimpse into what this journey looks like for our family.
Pre-Deployment Phase
Ladies and gentlemen, LET THE ARGUMENTS COMMENCE! The tension in the air is palpable as everyone braces for the inevitable. Instead of addressing the looming departure, we find ourselves squabbling over trivial matters, like dirty dishes stacking up in the sink.
Early Deployment Phase
Once the moment of goodbye hits, it feels like a punch to the gut. Emotions are laid bare, and it’s overwhelming. I hesitate to confront these feelings, fearing that acknowledging them will unleash a flood of pent-up sadness and anger. The weeks that follow are riddled with sleepless nights and a pervasive sense of loneliness.
The Halfway Mark
As we reach the halfway point, those of us at home start to adapt. A new normal begins to take shape, and life continues to move forward. For the one deployed, however, mixed emotions surface: “Does my family even miss me anymore? It feels like they’re all carrying on without me.” This couldn’t be further from the truth, as we are merely going into survival mode, ready to fight through the challenges. We push forward, knowing there’s no other choice. The kids sense it, and so do I.
He struggles with feelings of losing his role in parenting and guiding our children. I, on the other hand, feel the weight of responsibilities pressing down on me. His suggestions often come across as demands, and my responses can seem dismissive. This cycle continues, even though we’re aware of what’s happening; the emotional toll can be heavy.
Every deployment has its own set of challenges and surprises, shaped by our life stages. Reflecting on the toddler years, I remember how daunting it was to manage two kids with hearing loss under the age of four—baths, meals, tantrums, and endless appointments consumed my days. Now, we navigate the complexities of the teenage years, where issues feel more pressing: friendships, school pressures, hormones, and all the trials of adolescence. These matters are critical, and they weigh heavily on us.
Yet, amid the chaos, there’s a silver lining. The old saying rings true: absence does make the heart grow fonder. Simple moments become more cherished, and we learn to appreciate the essential things in life.
Now, here we stand at halftime, taking a moment to catch our breath before diving into the next phase of this journey. I hold on tightly as we approach the final stretch, preparing for what lies ahead.
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Summary
The emotional rollercoaster of military deployment for families is characterized by a mix of tension and adaptation. From the initial bickering during the pre-deployment phase to the acceptance of new normals, families face unique challenges. As they navigate the complexities of parenting and relationships, the absence of a loved one can strengthen bonds. Ultimately, every deployment unfolds with its own set of experiences, reminding us of the resilience of family ties.