One of the hardest parts of going to war is preparing to go. It is a private, introspective process that involves the finality of preparing as if you might not return. To share that part of the preparation with your loved ones would cause a great deal of heartache and more emotional burden for them. They have enough of that already. There is something liberating though in taking those steps. You must examine your motives for serving. If you are going reluctantly, in opposition to the overall mission, you do yourself and your team a disservice. You cannot fully commit to or focus on the individual mission if you resent the reasons you are there.
Of all the motivations that is core in the Army’s value system, selfless service is a connection to heritage that binds generations of soldiers. For me, the idea of serving was wrapped up in my family. I was serving for them. I wanted to protect them. This was difficult to communicate with Julie early on. Rational thought would also argue that I would serve my family best by being with them instead of a thousand miles away in war.
Acts of service along with motivation that is not self-serving provide the basis for many good works. When the human heart is motivated to serve others, then teamwork, self-control and discipline are easier to achieve. Faith is central to this. Faith and a belief that God is sovereign allow us the freedom of putting the interests of others above our own, including that of our own personal safety.
Holy Lord, please give us the words or images to express our heart emotions to those we love, especially those serving in the armed forces. May we rest secure in your mighty name and everlasting love.
“Place me like a seal over your heart, like a seal on your arm; for love is as strong as death, its jealousy unyielding as the grave. It burns like blazing fire, like a mighty flame.” (Song of Solomon 8:6)