OK, my last post was consumed with the details of our day. Now, let me talk about perspective. Joe and I are pretty used to being apart. No different than other soldiers and their spouses. This trip has been hard when I concentrate on the fact of where he is. But truly other than that, I get to talk to him every day. He makes the long walk over to call me before he goes to bed every single day, which makes this trip seem like every other trip or separation. Until yesterday. You can read (and please do) about “the incident” at his blog. http://sandboxadventures.wordpress.com/2008/05/28/reflections-on-the-incident/ It makes my heart stand in my chest, and we don’t even get the details. He called me soon after it happened and said he couldn’t talk long b/c he had to go check in, to let them know he was ok. “OK? OK, from what?” My mind starts wondering and racing. “I really can’t say” he says. More racing. He had already blogged about it and told me to go read his blog. “The incident” was referred to way down in the blog entry and was very vague. Joe was so calm, it seemed like no big deal. I asked if he saw anything, “no”, then how did he know about it, “I really can’t say” he says. Arrggh! I was asking all the wrong questions to get answers he couldn’t give. Now today, I get to read a little more about how he felt when it happened. Honestly, when we spoke, he seemed more like he had seen it on the news than experienced it in person. So calm. His blog entry says ”Could I be harmed? Sure, He is sovereign and makes that call, I rest in knowing that it’s He, not the guys on the other side of the wall who decides”. I am married to a strong, Godly man! What perspective. His faith in God calmed and reassured him, and my faith in the man God gave me calmed and reassured me. He is my hero!
Lord, thank You for the perspective You give my husband. Thank you for making me realize that my vigilance in prayer is needed, and not to become relaxed or careless with that responsibility. I know You didn’t show us this to give us a spirit of fear, but it does make me realize that You are in control. Help me to continue to look to you as the kids and I have picnics in the park and Joe is “over there”. You are the same God here or there and You are here and there. I praise you in that storm! You are awesome, God!
How frightening it must be to hear his (necessarily vague) accounts. You’re both absolutely right, though — God isn’t surprised by anything, and he never changes. Love,
Nancy
Katy,
I just discovered your blog, though I have been following your hubbys faithfully every morning. Thank you for sharing your perspective and your enduring faith. It comes across in every sentence and every blog. Joe has been a wonderful support as we prepare for our son to leave for basic. I am praying everyday for your family and your husband’s safety, but I know God has it covered. Tina (knittin5)
Tina,
Thanks for keeping up with my husband and me. We appreciate your prayers. It is so wonderful how God brings people together who have never met with the common bond of love for Him and the ability to pray for each other to defeat The Enemy! God bless your son and thank him for his willingness to serve! Stay srong in Him!
Katy