Finding Hope Beyond The FrontSample

Identity

Cindy, Army Wife

I grew up in a completely civilian world, never once giving the military a thought. Then a man in uniform walked into my life. When we met, he was just beginning on his own path in the Army, so the lifestyle would be new to both of us.

I soon learned that the old saying, “If the army wanted you to have a wife, it would have issued you one,” wasn’t really so much of a joke as one might think. Many times, when plans were already set for a weekend, a vacation, even a date night, something Army-related would come up. 

At first, I tried to fight it – to pit myself against the Army and force my husband to make a choice. But I stopped playing that game very early on because I learned that the Army always wins.

I am, indeed, very proud of my man who wears his uniform with pride. After more than a quarter of a century of being married to the Army, however, it’s easy for me to often feel like the less valued half of the marriage. When your military man is successful at what he has been called to and he rises in the ranks, there are always pats on the back, rewards, medals and citations recognizing his valor, heroism, intelligence, patriotism. 

I love to hear him speak at special events and dinners and ceremonies. I beam with pride and joy for him... but many times I am crying inside.

I’m beginning to realize that many of my dreams may never become a reality. This is okay if they are able to be replaced by other dreams and, most importantly, if the military member for whom so much has been sacrificed recognizes those sacrifices and validates the importance of his wife’s love in helping him achieve all that he has.

It’s not easy, but I know that in my husband’s eyes – and in God’s eyes – I am always a person of value, to be treasured, and that is what sustains me.

PRAYER: Lord, help me remember Your Word, when it says that You treasure each of Your children equally. We are all important to you and, in Your eyes, all are beautiful.

PASSAGES FOR STUDY: Ephesians 5:21-33; Galatians 3-4