What I found funny (or maybe ridiculous in the end) is that on that particular Friday night, I was home completely alone. I HATE staying home alone. For anyone that has a family, knows that peace and quite is very hard to come by and very cherished. The peace and quiet was wonderful for about an hour, then I was bored, lonely, and a bit "scared" (again, I hate staying home alone). That next morning, as I was standing in a crowd full of men and women that have been doing this same thing, night after night for the better part of a year. Many of these spouses had children, whom they had to care for every night, had to get ready every morning. Many of these spouses were "it" when it came to caring for children illnesses, planning birthday parties, Christmas shopping, mowing, housework, etc. While I was standing there, watching the almost unbearable anticipation on their faces, I finally realized how ridiculous I was for dreading a night alone. My emotions kicked into overload and watching the reactions as the plane landed made it impossible to not feel overwhelmed. I felt overwhelmed by feelings of excitement, by feelings of happiness, but most of all, by feelings of appreciation for the sacrifices that these families and their spouses and loved ones make each year in order for people like myself to enjoy "The Good Life".
As a photographer, I get to be involved in so many wonderful things. Taking photos of babies during there first weeks of life are breathtaking. Capturing that look of surprise on an expecting couples' faces when they open a box of pink or blue balloons is unforgettable. Watching the excitement on a grooms face the first time they see their beautiful bride is beautiful. This was something different. This was an entire year of so many emotions coming out in a few single hours. I witnessed smiles so big, "giddiness" to the point that I thought I would actually see hearts leap from chests...I witnessed tears of joy and family members that couldn't be more proud. This was a day that was truly indescribable.
Once the soldiers exited the plane, it was chaos. People running in all directions, hugs and tears and absolute joy. Children literally hung from their soldiers like monkeys. Families hugged together. To these family, this was that day they have been waiting for all year..something I'm sure many of them will have to do again. To me, it was a complete enlightenment of what it means to be a family of a soldier.
I will never forget to pray for these soldiers and their families each night before I go to bed and I will be sure to think of them often as the holidays come upon us. Thank you....Thank you men and women of the military for sacrificing for us...and Thank You to the families that do the same.
GOD BLESS AMERICA! Enjoy!
