I am blessed to have my 25 year old daughter serving in the United States Navy. I talk to my Sailor often these days as we are able to keep connected via email and telephone even when she is underway unlike the old days. Many of you may be able to identify with this: She is like most 25 year olds maneuvering her way through life and having brief dosages of frustrations. During these times when she calls and expresses her frustration about something that will not matter the next day I am wise enough to know she does not really want answers or rational solutions. When she wants advice or guidance she comes right out and ask. So until then, my role is to listen and to let her feel what she is feeling and give her MY vote of confidence.
For the most part I do well staying in the listening mode until she attempts to remind me of how today’s’ Navy is not like the Navy I served in. And to that comment I proudly say, “thank God for this…..my efforts were not in vain. From where I stand it appears I left the Navy better than I found it.” Now the first time I said this she followed up with a question of what did I mean. I started rattling off all of the benefits she now can take advantage of that were not available when I served. Yes, I remind her and any other young person whose attention I can capture about the blood, sweat, and tears that was shed for them.
I leave you with this final thought: I continue to encourage women veterans to support veteran service organizations. Volunteer your time to serve on community projects in honor of America’s Veteran and Military Community. Finally and most importantly, SHARE YOUR STORY.
Happy Mothers Day To All Military Moms! I salute you as you salute our military forces.
Contact Information About Our Guest Blogger – Grace Major is a Veteran Business Woman and Author. You can learn more about her service and her book at www.hanguptheuniform.com and follow Grace on Twitter @cgracemajor.
